The Lego universe arrived onto the big screen back in 2014 with The Lego Movie, which was an instant blockbuster. It charmed audiences with its playful humor, charming characters and heartwarming narratives. Of course, the stunning CGI played a crucial role in bringing the Lego world to life and kicked off a franchise that was well appreciated by both kids and adults.
Since then, we have seen three more theatrical releases – The Lego Batman Movie, The Lego Ninjago Movie and The Lego Movie 2. These movies further established Legos as a potential cinematic landscape. What’s more interesting is that the fun was not limited just to the cinemas.
In the years before and since, LEGO has quietly been releasing wave after wave of direct-to-video movies set in Lego-verse. Over 20 of these movies have premiered so far, and in this list, we take a trip down the nostalgia lane to rank them all.
21 Lego Friends: Girlz 4 Life (2015)
The first and the only LEGO Friends movie, this 2016 caper directed by Darren Campbell, Christian Cheshire, and Thomas J. Mikkelsen centers around Olivia, Stephanie, Emma, Mia and Andrea, who are extremely stoked about living in Heartlake City, learning more about music, friendship and the pop star industry and attending a big concert. A mishap surrounding a wrongly credited song forces the friends to regroup and save Livi from being embarrassed.
Fun But Only For the Kids
Despite the Lego Friends line not making a prominent appearance in the whole TV movie landscape of the franchise, Lego Friends: Girlz 4 Life brings enough of its hallmarks of empowerment, optimism and believable friendships to last a couple of years. The character work is brilliant and the animation brings each of their aesthetics to sparkling life, but the big-hearted fun alone doesn’t make the movie stand out.
20 Bionicle: The Legend Reborn (2009)
Directed by Mark Baldo, Bionicle: The Legend Reborn combines genres like science-fiction and action adventure to tell the story of the Great Spirit Mata Nui, who was once the ruler of an entire universe but now that he’s trapped inside the Mask of Life and crash-landed on a planet called Bara Magna, he must not only look for a way to return to his body but also help the villages fight against Bone Hunters and Skrall, who have formed an alliance.
Has Audiences Engaged with the Action
The movie was made for both fans of the Bionicle franchise as well as newcomers. It introduced fresh characters like the Glatorian and the people of Bara Magna, showing how much room for exploration there is within the Lego storyline. Its 80-minute runtime couldn’t fully deliver complex plots or battles, but the movie still managed to give imaginative action set-pieces and top-notch animation for fans of sci-fi with a dash of mystery to have them hooked.
19 Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Brain Drain (2017)
In Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Brain Drain, Wonder Woman, Supergirl, and Batgirl find their powers and personalities being thrown into chaos after they suffer from blackouts and short-term amnesia. Apparently, the bizarre dream they’ve all been seeing where Katana and Bumblebee steal diamonds turns out to be real, only they don’t remember it. They dig deeper into the mystery and try to find the mastermind behind it all.
Fails to Be as Creative as the Rest
The movie brings together two beloved franchises – DC Super Hero Girls and Lego – and is the first installment in the series to be based on the DC Super Hero Girls brand of Lego. While it offers a decent score, entertaining humor, some suspense, and immensely fun characters voiced by Grey Griffin, Ashlyn Selich, and Anais Fairweather, the movie lacks originality and breaks no new ground except for bringing some more cartoon action in direct-to-video format.
18 Hero Factory: Savage Planet (2011)
Based on episodes 6 and 7 of Hero Factory, Hero Factory: Savage Planet is a sci-fi adventure that follows rookie hero Rocka, who receives a distress call from a distant planet. After discovering that it is from Aldous Witch, a former Hero Professor, who crash-landed on the jungle planet of Quatros, Rocka decides to investigate it himself.
Upon reaching Quatros, Rocka learns that Aldous has now transformed into the power-hungry Witch Doctor and wants to turn the planet into a deadly wasteland.
Spectacular World-Building
The TV movie combines action and adventure with engrossing interstellar intrigue. In classic superhero genre fashion, it crafts one breathtaking sequence after another where the good guy prepares himself to rise to the challenge and fight the bad guy. Established characters like Stringer, Nex, Surge and Witch Doctor and Two Fangz become fully realized as the imaginative lore spreads further.
17 Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Super-Villain High (2018)
Yet another animated superhero comedy film based on the DC Super Hero Girls franchise, Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Super-Villain High picks up from when Batgirl, Supergirl, and Wonder Woman were expelled from their previous school. They discover a new high school but soon discover that it’s just a front for training supervillains and having them commit crimes. They team up with Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, Katana, and Bumblebee to solve the problem.
An Offbeat Super Hero Girls’ Team-up
Despite being set far away from the loopy world of the Lego movies and its spin-offs, the movie is breezy enough for kids to have fun watching it. Super-Villain High features a group of can-do girls battling and outwitting their school’s administration while also offering moments that are hysterical and heartfelt at the same time. Clever writing and offbeat plot twists make it an essential addition to the direct-to-video DC universe.
16 Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League vs. Bizarro League (2015)
The third movie in the Lego DC Comics film series, Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League vs. Bizarro League follows Superman and the Justice League going about their usual business of fighting the bad guys. Meanwhile, the Bizarro World is facing a new threat in the form of the galactic tyrant Darkseid, who wants to annihilate the world. Bizarro arrives on Earth to create his own version of a team, and the Justice League and Bizarro League become allies.
Two Teams Unite Against Darkseid
An offbeat romp, the movie was a delight with younger viewers because they simply found joy in seeing Superman and company act goofy. The clever inside jokes sprinkled around make the animation appear top-notch. But critics gave disapproving looks for its silly plot and promotional tone. Actors like Nolan North, Khary Payton, Tom Kenny and more reprise their voice roles, but ultimately, the lighthearted superhero adventure is for children only.
15 Bionicle: Mask of Light (2003)
In Bionicle: Mask of Light, the fire-based village of Ta-Koro, which is situated on a tropical island in the Bionicle universe, is under threat from the evil Makuta. He is seeking the legendary Mask of Light so he can reign with terror. Jaller and Takua are sent to retrieve the mask before Makuta’s three Rakshi’s can get it but the journey becomes increasingly dangerous with every step the islanders take.
First Reboot of the Classic Heroes
Directed by Terry Shakespeare and David Molina, the movie gave the Bionicle characters their first time in CGI form with exceptional visuals and vivid animation. It brought heroes like Jaller, Tahu, Lewa, Gali and Takua to life in a refreshing setting that was faithful to their story origins but clearer and crisper at the same time. The action sequences were top-notch for a direct-to-DVD release at the time, making it a perfect getaway for viewers.
14 Lego Scooby-Doo! Blowout Beach Bash (2017)
Director Ethan Spaulding, a storyboard artist and animator, uses his experience and skills in the genre to bring to life yet another Lego-brand-inspired Scooby-Doo movie. This time, after having solved a mystery, Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma decide to take a break and end up attending the Blowout Beach Bingo Bash. They soon realize that the beach is empty because of ghost pirates and delve into the mystery.
Scooby-Doo and the Gang Have a Blast
Nothing extraordinary happens in Lego Scooby-Doo! Blowout Beach Bash. It is not the strongest entry in the Scooby-Doo movie series or the Lego universe because the unoriginal mystery is filled with expected plot twists. Still, it offers moments of entertainment. The writing is endearing and goofy, especially with Shaggy and Scooby; their quirky habits capturing the nostalgia and reminding us that the franchise’s winning formula is still alive and well.
13 Hero Factory: Rise of the Rookies (2010)
Hero Factory: Rise of the Rookies follows the misadventures of six Heroes as they’re banded up together. Of the six, Stormer is the team leader and the toughest Hero at the Hero Factory. With his crew members, Bulk and Stringer, he’s supposed to train a new Rookie team made-up of Furno, Breez, and Surge. Their enemy, as it turns out, is a villain from Stormer’s past, who has unfinished business with the Alpha and wants to take down the Hero Factory.
Fresh Faces Meet Old-Timers
The movie provides a dynamic origin story for its main character, Stormer, who eventually established himself as a mainstay in the Toyline-turned-TV movie series. Director Mark Baldo dramatizes the Hero Factory world as seen in the first four episodes of the animated television series of the same name while injecting heart into the heroes. The runtime is complementary to the compelling band of newbies as it introduces them in a simple yet bold manner.
12 Lego Scooby-Doo! Haunted Hollywood (2016)
Lego Scooby-Doo! Haunted Hollywood may be the first movie based on the Scooby-Doo brand of Lego, but it is overall the twenty-sixth movie in Scooby-Doo’s direct-to-video universe. Which means an elaborate lore was already established for the characters when they won a trip to Hollywood and paid a visit to Brickton Studios, an old horror film studio on the verge of being shut down. There, Scooby-Doo and his friends uncover secrets and face classic movie monsters.
Star-Studded and Delightful
A combination of the beloved Scooby-Doo gang and the whimsical Lego universe may seem odd at first. And honestly, watching our favorite mystery-solvers transform into Lego characters and lack the fluidity needed to materialize ghosts and monsters felt like a silly effort. Praised for its animation, inventive visuals and overall atmosphere, the movie was still met with criticism as it lacked depth and was overall predictable.
11 Bionicle 3: Web of Shadows (2005)
Makuta’s evil shadow hasn’t spread any further across the island in the third installment in a series of direct-to-video movies based on the Bionicle toy line by Lego, which is a prequel to Mask of Light, because he lays frozen in his crystal prison. When the heroic Toa return to Metro Nui, they find out that their city is overrun by an old enemy – robotic spiders called Visorak with the ability to weave near-indestructible webs – and they must battle this army to save their home.
A Satisfying Prequel to the Original Trilogy
Closing out the Bionicle trilogy, Bionicle 3: Web of Shadows is a polished entry that provided a climactic conclusion to the narrative despite being set prior to the events of the other two movies. It took the epic scale, sprawling set pieces, and battles to new standards by giving the heroes a final conflict to deal with. While bittersweet and focused mainly towards entertaining pre-teens, the movie managed to thrill all with its action and intrigue.
10 Bionicle 2: Legends of Metru Nui (2004)
The second film based on Lego’s Bionicle toy line, Bionicle 2: Legends of Metru Nui takes place in the ancient city of Metru Nui, where a shadow in the form of the sinister and malevolent Makuta threatens to conquer everything. The last surviving Toa, Lhikan, entrusts six Matoran with Toa stones and transforms them into new heroes, who then embark on a quest to prove themselves worthy of becoming the city’s leader and challenging Makuta.
Sequel with Properly Fleshed-Out Characters
The movie expanded the world-building from the previous movie and fixed some plot holes, for which it was greatly praised. It also fleshed out the beloved team of friends Vakama, Nuju, Matau, Onewa, Whenua, and Nokama, who share an entertaining dynamic both in their travels and climactic battles. Strong voice acting, clever pacing, and an incredible music score elevated the prequel to a standout entry.
9 Lego: The Adventures of Clutch Powers (2010)
Pretty much self-explanatory in its title, Lego: The Adventures of Clutch Powers follows Clutch Powers, the best LEGO explorer in the universe as he embarks on an intergalactic adventure.
Much to his chagrin, Clutch is assigned some new teammates, which include a firefighter, a biologist and an engineer, and sent to investigate a prison break on another planet. But on their way from the futuristic Lego City to the Space Police prison planet, they make a pitstop in the medieval world of Ashlar.
Brings to Screen a Beloved Leader
An homage to old school adventure flicks, the movie bursts at the seam with laughter and charm. Clutch Powers is instantly iconic thanks to his never-say-die attitude and Ryan McPartlin’s voice. Director Howard E. Baker reimagine Lego City vibrantly while crafting a story that has edge-of-your-seat thrills and strong vocal work. The quirky humor also adds to its timeless feel, making it an essential movie for Lego lovers.
8 Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Gotham City Breakout (2016)
After relentlessly chasing after and defeating criminals, Batgirl, Robin and Nightwing decide to take Batman on a vacation and leave Gotham City under the temporary care of Superman. However, evil and battle follows him everywhere he goes and Batman must face off against Bane and Deathstroke. Meanwhile, the Justice League, with a little help from the Teen Titans, defends Gotham City against many of Batman’s infamous villains.
Filled With Jokes and Suspense
Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Gotham City Breakout is ripe with high-stakes action and battles between iconic superheroes and supervillains. Making sure the intrinsic creativity of its source is retained, the movie provides unbridled enthusiasm with outstanding Lego-fied scenarios and palpable interaction between characters. You can say that this movie hits all the right sweet spots in the Lego canon.
7 Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Attack of the Legion of Doom (2015)
In Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Attack of the Legion of Doom, three of the most devious supervillains of the franchise – Lex Luthor, Sinestro, and Black Manta – join forces to create their own team and name it the Legion of Doom. They audition potential members like Deathstroke, Joker, Man-Bat, Penguin, and others but reject all for one reason or another. Naturally, a battle between the two teams unfolds.
Space Opera Mixed with Animated Action
This Lego animated adventure strikes the perfect balance between action and humor. It lacks the grandeur of some other superhero blockbusters, but compensates it with quirky charm, animation quality, and an engaging pace. The highlight of the TV movie is the Legion of Doom’s audition process and the ultimate clash between heroes and villains. Overall, the movie is testament to the boundless potential held by these worlds and stories.
6 Lego DC: Shazam!: Magic and Monsters (2020)
A young orphan named Billy Batson inherits ancient magic from a powerful wizard, which grants him the power to transform into an adult superhero by yelling the wizard’s name, Shazam. After learning to harness and control his powers, Shazam quickly earns celebrity status and gets attention from the Justice League, who invite him to be a part of the team. But when trouble arrives in the form of the villainous Doctor Sivana, Shazam aids Batman and the others and proves himself worthy.
Shazam Makes Its Way Into Lego-Verse
His first appearance in the Lego universe happens with Lego DC: Shazam!: Magic and Monsters and the movie showcases Shazam’s journey from a young boy to a full-fledged hero fighting threats like nobody’s business. The animation is as charming as in the rest of the movies, and it balances themes of trust, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself when it comes to choosing between good and evil.
5 Lego Batman: The Movie – DC Super Heroes Unite (2013)
Produced, and directed by Jon Burton, Lego Batman: The Movie – DC Super Heroes Unite brings back the fun for Lego fans by taking them to Gotham City, where The Joker is embarking on his latest devious scheme; this time, with fellow billionaire and mastermind Lex Luthor in tow. Meanwhile, the Dark Knight has his hands full dealing with all the evil so he teams up with Superman and the Justice League to stop this unlikely alliance and save the day.
A Smash Hit that United Fanbases
Fans who think this direct-to-video movie is simply a feature-length cut-scene from the titular video game will be surprised to see just how charming, fun and humorous Lego Batman: The Movie – DC Super Heroes Unite is. The dynamic between the members of the Justice League is explored, showing their somewhat petty differences as they work together to thwart the Joker and Lex Luthor’s destructive powers. Also, its imaginative take on classic storylines is super iconic too.
4 Lego DC Batman: Family Matters (2019)
The ninth Lego DC Comics film turns up the mystery and suspense as Batman, Batgirl, Robin, and other DC superheroes receive a mysterious invitation to gather around in an alleyway. Suspicion hangs heavy and darkness looms over Gotham City when the message leads the superheroes to confront the villainous Red Hood, who is obsessed with tearing the Bat-family apart and causing harm to their precious city.
A Wholesome Lego Movie
It is always fun to see an ensemble work together, explore relationship dynamics and get past petty conflicts to emerge victorious in the face of impossible odds. Lego DC Batman: Family Matters makes use of the same spirit and delivers a movie that is action-packed, tense, emotional and committed. While not gritty like other Batman movies, it has its moments of heartwarming fun and decent adventure to keep viewers engaged.
3 Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Aquaman – Rage of Atlantis (2018)
Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Aquaman – Rage of Atlantis is directed by Matt Peters, and it follows Aquaman as he faces a triple threat. One, the entire world might have to face the wrath of the Red Lanterns. Two, he must deal with the Justice League’s lack of faith in him and his usefulness. And three, he must protect his palace as the royal heir to the throne of Atlantis after his brother seizes power and overturns his legacy.
Surpasses All Expectations
As the first underwater adventure in the Lego series of movies, Rage of Atlantis dives into the high seas without any restraints. The animation is beautiful and the voice cast, which features Dee Bradley Baker as Aquaman and a stellar ensemble of Troy Baker, Grey Griffin, and Nolan North, who reprise their roles, does a fantastic job in bringing the characters to life. The story itself weaves an intricate yarn of action, humor, and lots of fun in its 77-minute runtime.
2 Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Cosmic Clash (2016)
In the fifth installment of the Lego DC movies, the brilliant and hyper-obsessive super-computer Braniac has his sights set on Earth. He intends to shrink it and add it to his collection of miniature planets. However, when he comes face to face with Earth’s firewall – the Justice League – he sends Superman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern to different time periods. Batman and the Flash are left to embark on a time-traveling adventure to save their friends and the Earth.
LEGO Universe Couldn’t Get Any Better
Directed by Rick Morales, Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League – Cosmic Clash is undoubtedly among the best movies in the Lego universe. It takes viewers on an intergalactic adventure and provides inventive and hilarious escapism. Brainiac’s relentless pursuit of Earth only paves the way for our heroes to shine. Voiced by Troy Baker and James Arnold Taylor respectively, Batman and Flash display a scene-stealing chemistry.
