Common Sense Media Review
By Brian Costello
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Loving tribute to legendary superhero creator; mild language
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Stan Lee
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
STAN LEE chronicles the life and times of the legendary superhero creator. Through interview footage and Claymation, this documentary shows Lee's rise from humble beginnings in New York City, how he developed his work ethic, and his rise in the comic book industry in its early years before and after World War II. After World War II, we see the rise of Marvel, and how Lee, working with the artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, developed such iconic superheroes like Spiderman, The Incredible Hulk, Black Panther, and Captain America.
Is It Any Good?
This is a loving tribute to the best known of the comic book creators who helped create so many iconic superheroes and villains. Through archival interview footage and Claymation reenactments, Stan Lee offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of Marvel as characters like Spiderman, Captain America, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, and Black Panther were coming to life on Marvel's pages. From humble beginnings in New York City, Lee almost accidentally fell into his job, and this documentary shows how he helped transform comic books from lowbrow entertainment for kids to a massive industry of blockbuster movies and merchandise enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
For the superfans wanting more, Stan Lee merely hints at any rivalries and acrimony that developed between Lee and fellow creators Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko regarding who did what in terms of superhero creation, and how much credit should be given to each. It's not as "inside baseball" as, say, all these Marvel (and DC) metaverse movies flooding theaters and home entertainment these days, but as the story of Stan Lee's life and how his sensibilities transformed popular culture, this makes a solid case for Lee's lasting importance.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about documentaries like Stan Lee. How is this similar to and different from other documentaries you've seen?
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What did the movie reveal about the creative process at Marvel as so many iconic superhero characters were being developed?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : June 16, 2023
- Cast : Stan Lee
- Director : David Gelb
- Studio : Disney
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Superheroes , History
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Run time : 86 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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