Common Sense Media Review
By Brian Costello
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Insightful docu on the baddies we love to hate.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Necessary Evil: Super-Villains of DC Comics
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
NECESSARY EVIL: SUPER-VILLIANS OF DC COMICS takes a closer look at the evildoers in the DC Comics Universe. In this documentary narrated by Christopher Lee, directors, writers, voiceover actors, and DC Comics executives share their insights as to what makes a good villain, and why villains are necessary not only to the story, but also to bring out the best in the superheroes with whom they do battle. The documentary also looks at how villains in comic books have evolved over the years, and how the evil they unleash on the comic book universe mirrors the contemporary concerns and fears of our world. Philosophical discussion is mixed with discussions on the craft of character development, of creating story arcs and backstories for these loved and hated super-villains, and how such development fleshes out the characters, making them even more compelling, unforgettable, and iconic.
Is It Any Good?
Necessary Evil: Super-Villains of DC Comics offers a fascinating glimpse into the process and craft of story and character development. While focused on the infamous villains of the DC Comics universe, one doesn't have to be a comic book obsessive to take away valuable insights into why stories need villains, and how character backstories help to bring these characters to life. Appropriately narrated by Christopher Lee, the documentary features interviews with Guillermo Del Toro, Michael Shannon, and numerous writers, directors, and DC Comics executives who share their insightful reflections on what makes characters like The Joker, The Penguin, and Harley Quinn so iconic and unforgettable.
Necessary Evil: Super-Villains of DC Comics weaves philosophical discussion on evil and how society's conceptions of evil evolve over time with the craft of creating memorable characters and story. Such discussion may be dry for some, and superfans of DC Comics aren't likely to learn anything new, but for those interested in how these characters are brought to life, and how their actions serve to highlight the good in their superhero rivals, there are fascinating takeaways in every interview. It's an illuminating discussion that leaves the viewer with a deeper appreciation for the amount of thought and effort it takes to create these characters who attract and repel us.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about villains, not just in comic book stories, but also in books, movies, and television shows. Why are villains necessary in stories?
What would be some takeaways from this documentary for aspiring writers?
Many of those being interviewed discuss the backstories of the heroes and villains. Why are backstories necessary, not just for characters in comic book universes, but also for characters in other genres? Are backstories always necessary? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 1, 2013
- Cast : Christopher Lee , Guillermo del Toro , Michael Shannon
- Director : Scott Devine
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : DC Entertainment
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Superheroes
- Run time : 99 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate