4 MCU Movies That Proved Martin Scorsese's Claims about Superhero Genre Wrong
Scorsese might not be a fan, but these movies really make a strong case for being considered quality cinema.
In a 2019 interview with Empire Magazine, Martin Scorsese, the legendary filmmaker, stirred the pot by saying Marvel movies were "not cinema" and compared them to "theme parks."
Nothing’s changed in his opinion, and he has recently roasted Marvel yet again in an interview with GQ, where he basically expressed a relatively similar opinion.
While many movies in the superhero genre serve the sole purpose of entertainment, there are superhero movies, even in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, that bring more to the table, whether it's through breathtaking visuals or meaningful storytelling.
Fans on Reddit shared some MCU movies they believe are most powerful in terms of themes they touch upon, and you simply can’t say these movies are not cinema.
1. Black Panther
Fans appreciated how Black Panther explored the theme of racism and the responsibilities of advanced nations, making it more than just a superhero flick.
Themes explored: racism, legacy, responsibility of power, and familial sins.
2. Avengers: Age of Ultron
While the movie was criticized for its ridiculous villain (compared to Ultron’s comic counterpart), fans found a positive side in the exploration of the important theme of man vs machine.
Themes explored: humanity, godhood, salvation, redemption, and search for a better world.
3. Eternals
While Eternals, directed by the Oscar-winning Chloé Zhao, was criticized as part of the MCU, it was also celebrated for its exploration of what one values more — their ideas, or their humanity — through the diverse perspectives of its characters.
Plus, the movie had absolutely stunning visuals and looked way different from any other Marvel movie.
Themes explored: value of life, religion, and conflict between personal beliefs and humanity.
4. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
This movie was praised for tackling themes like self-acceptance through every character, especially Rocket, making it a rich narrative about self and purpose.
Themes explored: delusions of grandeur, self-hatred, family, search for perfection, and value of life.
While Martin Scorsese has his reservations about Marvel movies, fans beg to differ. Some Marvel films, with their diverse themes, proved that the superhero genre can indeed be a form of cinema that provokes thought and reflection.