It all began in 2008 with the release of “Iron Man.” In a mere span of ten years, Marvel has released 41 superhero movies. This equals about one movie release for every season!
Now, when a Marvel movie comes out, it is essentially the equivalent of the Patriots playing in another Super Bowl; we have already seen it countless times and there is no need to see it again. Yet, the box office does not agree with me. The Marvel Cinematic Universe movies have collectively made 10.901 billion dollars from 2008-2016, according to DisneyNews.us.
And get this, they aren’t even different movies, just the same characters in sequel after sequel. For example, “Spiderman: Homecoming” debut in June of 2017. But come on, did we really need another Spiderman movie? I don’t think so. Since 2002 there have been seven Spiderman movies — granted, three of them were created by Sony — but still, that’s a lot. Was the original portrayal by Tobey Maguire not good enough?
Another problem with Marvel superhero movies is that the plots are all the same. How many times can earth get invaded by aliens? According to the Marvel universe, multiple times a year. How many “well-trusted-character-turned-evil” plot twists can they pull? Too many to count.
I like to think I am not the only one who feels this way, either. Even those involved in the making of these movies are frustrated. There are many accounts of actors and actresses who have had difficulties dealing with Marvel directors and writers. Some of which include Natalie Portman (Jane Foster, Thor), Terrance Howard (James “Rhodey” Rhodes, Iron Man 1) and Ed Norton (Hulk, The Incredible Hulk).
Mickey Rourke, who played Ivan Vanko in “Iron Man 2” said, “If they [Marvel] want to make mindless comic book movies, then I don’t want to be a part of that.” There have also been statements from writers and directors who’ve either quit or promised to never work on a Marvel film again, due to unwanted changes to the script, according to CBR.com, a “comic books, superheroes and geek entertainment” website.
Before 2008, when Marvel released a movie every few years, it generated excitement. Granted, the were all cheesy, but at least they weren’t overbearing at the time. I cannot be the only person who thinks Marvel movies are all the same and kitschy. Am I crazy? What do you think about the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies? Let us know at van.vc.editor@wsu.edu.
Anna Nelson is the Editor in Chief for the VanCougar. She is a senior and is studying strategic communications.