5. Belonging to the Silver Age of comic books, Zatanna is one of the more prominent recurring characters in the DC Universe yet has never feature even as a side character in the films of her more famous counterparts
The daughter of Zatara – who made his first appearance in the legendary Action Comics #1 – Zatanna was created in 1964 by Gardner Fox and Murphy Anderson. A magician like her father, Zatanna’s story begins with her embarking on a quest to find her long-absent parents. Throughout her long journey, during which time she discovers that her competence as an illusionist is aided by her genetically gifted magical abilities, she encounters several other DC staple characters, including Batman and Robin, Atom, and Green Lantern. Eventually rising to the ranks of the Justice League of America, she becomes a close companion to both Superman and Wonder Woman.
One of the most powerful sorceresses in the DC Universe, Zatanna is capable of casting spells by both incantations and writing them in her own blood, using the latter to heal herself after being shot in the larynx on one occasion. However, clear limitations also exist, for whilst her powers increase while not being used she can also over-exert, rendering herself almost powerless. Woven into the stories of so many of the most famous comic book characters, as well as offering a counter for DC to Marvel’s Scarlett Witch or Doctor Strange, Zatanna is long overdue for inclusion on the big screen.
