Superhero movies have become super popular in the past decade. Marvel Studios’ MCU has become the most successful movie franchise in history. However, DC’s own cinematic universe might soon give Marvel close competition. Launching from 2013’s Man of Steel, the movie universe will continue to expand, starting with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. The second installment in the franchise will see the return of Superman and introduce iconic heroes Batman and Wonder Woman. Beloved icons for decades, this film will hopefully allow a whole new generation added to the ranks of fans.

Batman v Superman is a direct sequel to Man of Steel, albeit broadening the focus. Zack Snyder once again helms the project. The film takes place in the aftermath of the battle with General Zod from the previous film. Superman’s powers have caused massive controversy with all the destruction done to Metropolis. Although the city is rebuilt and he is their hero, the world begins to question the benefits of having the Kryptonian on Earth. Trailers for the film show Superman appearing in Washington D.C. in court along with crowds of protesters. Bruce Wayne notices the grave threat that Superman poses and decides to fight Superman as Batman once and for all. Lex Luthor is also in the film, and fans can assume he will be up to his usual maniacal mischief, this time somehow influencing the creation of Doomsday, a being more powerful than either hero. The trailers also revealed the classic batman costume, the batcave, batmobile, and all the other gadgets of Batman himself. It is also hinted that Batman had been in action for some time, although he sure shows no sign of slowing down!

The big question is: who would win in the fight? At first I had no doubt in my mind that Superman could easily overpower Batman. Superman is virtually indestructible, can fly, and has immense strength. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to speculate that he’d be more than a match for Batman, who has no superhuman powers. However, once the trailers were released, I began to see what Ben Affleck’s Batman was capable of. Like a special forces operative, he is at the peak of human fitness and an expert in all sorts of combat. The trailer showed a clip where he took down a group of armed hostiles with ease. Batman is also resourceful, and can use his wealth to his advantage. He is very mysterious and is respected through fear. The dark knight is the very opposite of Superman, who can be seen as the light. I was totally astonished when Batman managed to block Superman’s blow. The look of shock on Superman’s face is priceless, as he is rarely met with a challenge. At that point I was torn, because it felt like the ring was leveled out. It’s going to be a well matched battle.

Both Batman and Superman are really mainstream superheroes whose influences on society can be seen in everyday life. Fan-wise, I believe Batman is more popular among people just because he’s more relatable. Unlike Superman, he has physical limits and inner struggles while dealing with his own mortality. He is also a masked hero, which makes Batman’s image so versatile. Anyone can put on the mask and suit and be Batman. To many, Superman’s main flaw is that he has so few. His main weakness is Kryptonite; other than that audiences rarely see Superman vulnerable for very long. He is truly the brawn of the Justice League and one of the most powerful beings in the DC universe. In many ways Superman is the image of the perfect moral balance, always doing what’s right. Batman is not afraid to do the dirty work, making him more unpredictable as a character and therefore more intriguing to audiences. We also see bits of Wonder Woman in action, clearly stating that she is as powerful a hero as Superman and Batman. The effects and stunts are breathtaking, and the plot seems rich with twists and surprises.

Box office projections for this film are already high, as is the hype from loyal DC fans. According to Forbes.com, Batman v Superman is expected to “gross between $700 million and $1.12 billion worldwide” (Mendelson, forbes.com). This highly anticipated film hits theaters Friday, March 25. Watch the latest trailer below and don’t forget to witness the epic showdown next week!