Why the Hate Towards Marvel Movies?

Following the 2 year anniversary of AVENGERS: END GAME, I figure now is as good a time as ever to state the fact that I’ve become a Marvel fan. Uttering that statement used to irk me for the longest time, but over the past few months in quarantine, I’ve finally come around to the controversial franchise.

My initial stance of negativity (and likely the stance of others - looking at you Scorsese) towards the franchise was that it wasn’t real cinema. What the hell does that mean you ask? Well I think many people fell in love with film through the gritty and dark dramas of the independent film movement. The stories being told by indies are typically real stories that individuals can truly relate to on an emotional level and inspired so many of us to pursue filmmaking. The big studio blockbusters almost represent the antithesis of that. They are created with the sole purpose of churning out money via franchising opportunities. The acting and writing is typically sub-par and lacks the depth of indie films. Supporting these franchises, in my mind, was almost like supporting the enemy of independent film. I didn’t want to contribute to the studio machine, and for the longest time, I held out on seeing the Marvel movies.

Then quarantine came along and all that changed. Many of my friends decided to watch the Marvel series from start to finish given all the new time we had on our hands. I resisted at first, but their recommendations afterwards could not have been more stellar. They loved the adventure it took them on. Begrudgingly, I decided to start them myself. I downloaded the Disney+ app (feeding the studio machine) and away I went. To be honest, I found myself getting more and more hooked with each film. While lacking in great depth, the films themselves are what movies are supposed to be: entertainment. They serve as an excellent escape and are full of action, laughs, and drama throughout. I think what impressed me the most while watching was the way in which the Marvel universe was so well executed on an inter-connected basis. The ability to weave the stories together in a cohesive way is truly impressive. I tip my cap to you, Marvel Studios.

In conclusion, I’ve enjoyed the Marvel movies after finally giving them a chance. I think it’s possible to enjoy them AND enjoy indie films without being considered a sellout or contributing to the death of independent film. When I want mindless entertainment or action, I will go to the theaters to see Marvel movies. When I want a soul-touching drama, I will turn on an indie film from the comfort of my couch. Would I like to see more indie films in theaters today? Of course, but given the economics of film, that is unlikely to happen anytime soon. Luckily the numerous streaming platforms out there offer me a wide variety of indie content to get my fix of gritty drama at any time of day.