Widespread protests and riots across France have led to overnight curfews in Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Lille.
France's nationwide protests have taken a surreal turn, with people dressed as superheroes and fictional characters, including Captain America, Spider-Man, Batman, Deadpool and Superman, appearing amid demonstrations that have escalated into clashes and unrest.One of the most striking scenes emerged from Marseille, where a demonstrator dressed as Captain America was filmed using his shield to deflect high-pressure water cannons deployed by police. Other videos circulating on social media showed people dressed as Batman in Bordeaux and Spider-Man in Paris, adding an unusual visual dimension to the demonstrations.The appearances come as protests that began with student-led mobilisation have widened into a broader movement over the cost of living and public services.
Demonstrators, including students, teachers, trade unions and supporters of the Yellow Vest movement, have taken to the streets in large numbers, while some gatherings have witnessed tear gas, clashes and damage to property.
Captain America takes on water cannons
A demonstrator dressed as Captain America became one of the most widely shared figures from the protests after footage showed the person using the superhero's shield against a police water cannon in Marseille.
The scene, which appeared to recreate the character's familiar use of his shield, stood out amid the confrontations between protesters and security forces.
Another video of the incident circulated on social media, further drawing attention to the costumed demonstrator.
Batman, Spider-Man and Deadpool join the protests
Batman was also spotted among the demonstrators, with footage showing a person dressed as the DC Comics superhero during protests in Bordeaux.
Other posts showed Batman appearing amid the wider unrest, while a separate video showed a person dressed as Spider-Man on the streets of Paris.
A video from the demonstrations in Paris also featured several costumed characters, including Batman, Deadpool, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Captain America, as the protests continued to draw large crowds.
Meanwhile, Superman was another character spotted during the demonstrations, according to footage shared online.
Napoleon makes an appearance
The superhero sightings were accompanied by another unusual figure: Napoleon. A person dressed as the French historical leader was also seen amid the protests, adding to the range of costumes appearing on the streets.
The appearances have added an unexpected spectacle to demonstrations otherwise marked by public anger, police deployments and clashes. However, the social media footage does not establish whether the costumed participants were part of an organised protest strategy or simply individuals choosing to demonstrate in character.
Protests grow amid cost-of-living anger
The demonstrations have expanded beyond their initial student-led mobilisation, bringing together students, teachers, trade unions and supporters of the Yellow Vest movement. More than 500,000 people reportedly gathered in Paris and other cities to demand reforms amid frustration over living costs and public services.The unrest has also produced striking scenes around Paris's Place de la République, where the statue of Marianne, the personification of the French Republic, was pictured wearing a yellow vest.
The faces of the three allegorical figures representing Liberty, Equality and Fraternity at the monument's base appeared streaked with black marks resembling tears, while tear gas filled the square.The appearance of superheroes and other fictional characters has offered a surreal contrast to the tensions on the streets. But behind the viral footage, France continues to face a wider protest movement shaped by economic grievances, demands for reform and confrontations between demonstrators and police.