What is it that truly elevates a masked vigilante to the heights of superheroism? Is it the frequent selfless acts of bravery? The manner in which they single-handedly combat the criminal underworld? Or, could it be their ability to safeguard the people without compromising their values? In truth, the answer is none of the above. Ask any comic book fan-boy, school adolescent or those with a tendency to indulge in the occasional cosplay, and they'll tell it true: the most definitive characteristic of a superhero is an awesome costume. In the fictional world of DC, the immortal phrase "it's a bird, it's a plane, it's Superman" owes its success to the man of steel's unmistakable apparel. After all, 'it's a seemingly airborne Daily Planet worker' doesn't necessarily have the same ring to it. Whether imperious or unassuming, a costume dictates a hero's longevity. Of course, the same principle applies to a costume that sucked. Whether displayed on the big screen or confined to the page, disastrously attired superheroes survive through jest and scorn; from Batman to The Mystery Men, the ill-suited costume does not discriminate. Indeed, the translation from page to screen can be, at times, difficult. What is seemingly badass in a comic book is just plain ridiculous in reality. As such, the world of film has been forced to endure more than a few farcical costumes. Though, conversely, so too has it entertained the sight of many a magnificent spectacle.