The Most Underrated DCEU Superhero Movie Gets Its Due On Netflix After Disappointing $130M Box Office

A surprisingly good movie from the old DC Extended Universe is gaining popularity now that it’s available on Netflix, especially with the same character being reintroduced in James Gunn’s new DC Universe. Even though the DCEU timeline ended in 2023, fans can still enjoy these films thanks to streaming and home video releases.

Actor Xolo Maridueña’s movie, Blue Beetle, is now available on Netflix and has quickly become popular with U.S. viewers. It’s currently the fifth most-watched film on the platform’s Top 10 list for American subscribers, according to a recent announcement from Gunn.

Directed by Ángel Manuel Soto and written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, the film follows Jaime Reyes as he finds a powerful alien artifact – the Scarab – which transforms him into a superhero. Notably, this movie was the first superhero film to star a Latino lead, marking a significant milestone in the genre.

In addition to Xolo Maridueña, Blue Beetle stars Bruna Marquezine as Jenny Kord, Susan Sarandon as the villain Victoria Kord, George Lopez as Uncle Rudy Reyes, and Raoul Max Trujillo as Ignacio Carapax. Although the film earned $130.8 million worldwide, its release was complicated by the SAG-AFTRA strike, which prevented the actors from doing publicity.

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In a review for ScreenRant, Tatiana Hullender highlighted the strong family relationships in Blue Beetle, calling scenes with the family ‘a warm hug.’ The film has been well-received, currently boasting a 78% critics’ score and a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the better-regarded entries in the DC Extended Universe.

Jaimie’s journey isn’t finished yet! Although a movie sequel isn’t planned, the character and Xolo Maridueña’s portrayal will continue within the DC Universe. DC Studios is developing an animated Blue Beetle series, announced on June 14, 2024, with Miguel Puga leading the project as showrunner. Angel Manuel Soto and Gareth Dunnet-Alcoce will serve as executive producers.

The upcoming TV show will expand upon the events of the movie, but won’t simply retell the same story. This will also open the door for actor Xolo Maridueña to reprise his role as Jaime Reyes (Blue Beetle) in future DC Universe live-action projects. Maridueña recently shared an update on the show with ScreenRant on February 3, 2025, confirming it’s still being developed.

I haven’t seen any scripts for Blue Beetle yet, but the team is working hard on it, and everyone at DC has been incredibly welcoming to the character. Right now, I’m focused on finishing up the final season of Cobra Kai, so I haven’t had much chance to check in on what’s happening with Blue Beetle. However, I’m hopeful that after Superman comes out, DC will really explore the potential of that world. They’re busy, which is great – it means we’re all getting our work done. I’ll be ready when DC calls about Blue Beetle whenever they’re ready.

Blue Beetle is available through home media release and on streaming (Netflix in the U.S.)

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2025-11-19 20:08