The Most Relatable Human Superheroes in Movie History

Superheroes have been around in film since the silent movie era with the creation of the 1920 film, "The Mark of Zorro". It was followed by "Don Q: The Son of Zorro" just a few years later. But it wasn't until the 1930s, and the introduction of Superman that the American public became enthralled with these "benevolent fictional characters with superhuman powers," as defined by the Oxford Dictionary.

Over the past decade and a half, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of superhero movies and television series, believed to be attributed to the groundbreaking success of the 2008 films, "Iron Man" and "The Dark Knight". These films not only captured the imagination of an entire generation but also managed to gross millions in box office sales.

While fans were undoubtedly drawn to the characters of Tony Stark, and Bruce Wayne, it wasn't solely because of their reliability. When they aren't saving the world, both Stark and Wayne are billionaires which makes it a bit more difficult for most of us to relate.

One of the best parts of other heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and DC Extended Universe (DCEU) is the relatability of different characters. Some are in high school, some have real jobs, and some have built themselves up. (Perhaps we need these superheroes in real life to rescue us from situations, like U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich who was recently sentenced to 16 years in prison in Russia.)

To determine the most human superheroes that we can relate to, 24/7 Tempo consulted different outside sources, including ComicBookResources.com, ComicBook.com, and Marvel.com. These guardians and defenders of justice, whether in comic books, the silver or small screen, often represent justice, that person who fights for the everyday person and can be an inspiration to us to do better.

• Real name: Bartholomew Henry "Barry" Allen
• Notable superpower: Speed

The Flash is a hero who still has a real job with the Central City Police Department. He struggles with wanting a girl and has a group of friends helping him fight crime after the Particle Accelerator went off. Allen has had to deal with unimaginable types of tragedy in his life and didn't have his powers until adulthood. He knows what it's like to go to college and work to be where he is today.

• Real name: Clinton Francis "Clint" Barton
• Notable superpower: Peak human conditioning, excellent marksman and fighter

Family is one of the most important parts of humanity, which is why Hawkeye is so relatable. He left the Avengers squad to spend time with his kids while they were growing up. This is a choice many people have had to face at one point or another.

People relate to his story and see him as someone they could become someday if they work hard at their craft. Even though he didn't get his own movie, Hawkeye knows what it means to be a family man. He understands that it's crucial to work hard if you want to succeed at anything.

• Real name: Natalia Alianovna Romanova (her alias is Natasha Romanoff)
• Notable superpower: Enhanced with "super-solider serum" to have peak human strength

Black Widow wasn't born with any powers and while her childhood isn't as relatable for most, fans look at her and see someone who trained her body to do the impossible. She can take down anyone who comes her way with intentions of harm and struggles with her feelings and deciphering what's best for her.

This is what makes her one of the most valuable members of the Avengers. Young girls look up to her as a powerful heroine who's relied upon by others. Fans love that she strives to save the day without superhuman powers.

• Real name: Peter Parker
• Notable superpower: Enhanced abilities – heals fast, and has webs that enable him to fly

Going through high school can be a challenging time for many people. Trying to fit in, get good grades, and set yourself up for a bright future can create loads of stress. Spider-Man shows that he has all of these issues too, in addition to taking time out to save the world.

Not only is he out helping innocent people, while also trying to convince Mary Jane to be with him, but he has experienced loss as well, with the death of his uncle. Like The Flash, Spider-Man wasn't born with powers. He gained them later on in life and knows what it's like to be normal and have a regular life.

• Real name: Steve Rogers
• Notable superpower: Enhanced physical abilities

Rogers wanted to serve his country during World War II but he wasn't the right size…at first. He underwent an experiment to create a super soldier and was ready to get out there without hesitation. Rogers received superhuman abilities but still had to go through life being looked over and neglected.

He was not taken seriously, a feeling many people have, and they live vicariously through Rogers. Captain America stands up for what's right, even when it's hard to do so. His values never changed, no matter how much he physically did.

• Real name: Kal-El and Clark Kent
• Notable superpower: Able to fly, has super strength

The only hero on this list who was born with his powers is Superman but he masks his powers behind his alter ego, Kent. He can fly, shoot lasers out of his eyes, exhibit super strength, and run at super speed, but those around him know him as a shy reporter who lives an ordinary life.

Superman became even more relatable when the hit show "Smallville" premiered. Fans got a glimpse into his high school life and teenage years. Kent did his best to blend in as a way of protecting his secret. Click here to read more about the best superhero movies of all time.