by Tyler Hanley

A surge of cinematic superheroes burst from the printed page this year. The trend that developed and died with the "Batman" franchise was resurrected in 2000 by Bryan Singer's "X-Men." In 2003, it was back in full swing.

This year alone, comic-book icons smashed, slashed and teleported their way onto the big screen, bringing to life two of Marvel's most recognized players: Daredevil and the Hulk. And the phenomenon is only accelerating, with half a dozen superhero movies slated for the coming year -- including the highly anticipated "Spider-Man 2." Here's a look at what 2003 had to offer, and what to look forward to in 2004.

2003

Daredevil Ben Affleck portrayed Marvel's man without fear opposite bad-boy Colin Farrell as the devious Bullseye. Though the film received mediocre reviews, it proved Jennifer Garner (as Elektra) is more than a run-of-the-mill television actress.

Hulk Aussie actor Eric Bana and Oscar winner Jennifer Connelly starred in this adaptation of Marvel's green goliath. Directed by Ang Lee, "Hulk" had critics swaying between masterpiece and mistake, with little middle ground.

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Sean Connery headlined this version of Alan Moore's award-winning comic-book series. Poor reviews and minimum word-of-mouth made "League" a forgettable fantasy adventure.

X2 This follow-up to the widely seen "X-Men" reunited director Bryan Singer with his acclaimed cast of mutant misfits (Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart). "X2" was the most successful of 2003's comic-book films and cemented the release of "X3" (2006).

2004

Hellboy Ron Perlman ("Alien: Resurrection") stars in this adaptation of the Mike Mignola comic book about an earth-bound demon and his band of bizarre heroes. Guillermo del Toro ("Blade II") directs. Release date: April 2, 2004.

The Punisher Marvel Comics and Artisan Entertainment team up to erase memories of Dolph Lundgren's 1989 bomb. Thomas Jane ("Dreamcatcher") portrays vigilante Frank Castle this go round, opposite villain John Travolta. Release date: April 16, 2004.

Spider-Man 2 The web-head returns to theaters with Sam Raimi back in the director's chair. Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst reprise their roles, while Alfred Molina ("Identity") plays Spidey's adversary, the sinister Dr. Octopus. Release date: July 2, 2004.

Catwoman DC Comics begins its cinematic comeback following Joel Schumacher's disastrous "Batman & Robin" (1997), but this "Catwoman" strays from its comic-book roots. Halle Berry stars alongside villainess Sharon Stone. Release date: July 30, 2004.

Blade: Trinity Wesley Snipes makes his third run as Marvel's leather-clad vampire hunter. The film boasts a strong supporting cast that includes Kris Kristofferson, Parker Posey and Jessica Biel. Release date: Aug. 13, 2004.

Man-Thing Marvel and Artisan re-team for this adaptation of the Marvel comic about a voiceless creature that dwells in the Florida Everglades. Filmed in Sydney, Australia, and directed by special-effects master Brett Leonard. Release date: Aug. 27, 2004.

Constantine This big-screen treatment of the critically acclaimed comic "Hellblazer" from DC's adult-oriented Vertigo line has Keanu Reeves playing supernatural detective John Constantine. Rachel Weisz co-stars. Release date: Sept. 17, 2004.