When it comes to the DC and Marvel movie release face-off, Marvel’s funding and characters give it the upper hand.

These last two months have been a fantastic time to be a comic book fan. After DC’s massive announcement of to-be-released movies, like “Batman v Superman” and “Justice League,” Marvel struck right back with movie announcements of its own, including “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Black Panther.”

DC is known for its often dark, gritty interpretations of characters, such as Christopher Nolan’s Batman. Marvel is known for the massive scale of its films and witty writing, with many of its characters closely following their comic book counterparts.

It’s important to look at the track records of both comic book companies when it comes to determining which will release the superior films. There have been incredible movies from both: DC’s Batman trilogy and Marvel’s “The Avengers.”

If you compare heroes, DC heroes are more recognizable; it is safe to assume even those living under an anti-comic book rock have heard of Superman and Batman.

But, Marvel has a unique advantage that will help it prevail over DC: funding. Marvel is owned by Disney and has incredible access to merchandising and a reach to audiences of all ages. Disney has brilliantly marketed the Marvel brand to children while appealing to adults.

Marvel has many characters who viewers can easily connect with. Characters of the Marvel universe suffer from deep-rooted traumas and human pain, like how Iron Man struggles with substance abuse, which makes them appear more human.

Marvel is also known for its use of black heroes like Falcon, who was featured in the film “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.” Black Panther, another black superhero, will star in his self-titled movie in 2017.

Many Marvel characters are not invincible, and, as in the case of Spider-Man, they barely make enough money to survive. These relatable qualities allow heroes to connect to a wider audience at a more personal level. The young heroes of Marvel also appeal to a younger generation of those who wish to change the world.

Marvel holds great power and will ultimately release the better movies if it is careful. After all, with great power comes great responsibility.