Improving Marvel: A Critical Look At Its Cinematic And Television Output

Aria Freeman

5 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Over-Reliance on Familiar Formulas and a Lack of Risk-Taking

The MCU's success has, in part, been built on established formulas. However, this reliance on familiar structures has led to a sense of creative stagnation in recent projects. Improving Marvel necessitates a departure from predictability.

Repetitive Storytelling Structures

Many recent MCU projects follow predictable narrative arcs: a threat emerges, heroes assemble, battles ensue, and the threat is ultimately defeated. This predictability, while initially comforting, leads to a lack of originality.

• Examples of formulaic plots: The repetitive "villain with a personal vendetta" trope seen in several films and shows.
• Lack of originality in character development: Character arcs often feel pre-determined, lacking genuine surprise or growth.
• Predictable villain arcs: Villains are often one-dimensional, lacking the complexity and nuance that could make them truly compelling.

To inject unpredictability, Marvel needs to:

• Embrace unconventional narrative structures, such as non-linear storytelling or unreliable narrators.
• Experiment with genre-bending, incorporating elements of horror, comedy, or other genres into superhero narratives.
• Prioritize character-driven stories over plot-driven ones, allowing for more nuanced character development.

Safe Character Choices

While established characters provide a built-in fanbase, the MCU's over-reliance on them overshadows the potential of lesser-known heroes.

• Examples of underutilized characters with potential: Characters like Beta Ray Bill or the Squadron Supreme deserve their time in the spotlight.
• Suggestions for introducing fresh faces and diverse storylines: Developing original characters and exploring diverse cultural backgrounds within the MCU.

Improving Marvel requires:

• Introducing new intellectual property (IP) to broaden the universe and offer fresh perspectives.
• Exploring diverse cultures and backgrounds, enriching the MCU with new heroes and stories.
• Taking chances on more experimental characters with unique powers and complex backstories.

Quality Control Issues Across Multiple Platforms

Maintaining consistent quality across the MCU's expanding television and film slate presents significant challenges. Improving Marvel's output requires a critical look at these inconsistencies.

Inconsistent Quality in Television Series

The Disney+ series have shown a wide range in quality. While some have been critically acclaimed, others have fallen short of expectations.

• Examples of high-quality shows: WandaVision, Loki showcased strong writing, compelling characters and innovative storytelling.
• Examples of shows that fell short: Certain series suffered from pacing issues, weak writing, underdeveloped characters, or inconsistent visual effects.

To improve the overall quality of its television series, Marvel needs:

• A more rigorous process for showrunner selection, ensuring creative vision aligns with the MCU's overall direction.
• Stronger creative oversight to maintain consistency in quality across different productions.
• More cohesive long-term planning for the television universe, preventing narrative fragmentation.

The Balancing Act Between Film and Television Continuity

Maintaining consistency between films and television projects remains a significant hurdle. Improving Marvel's storytelling requires a more unified approach.

• Examples of instances where continuity has suffered: Discrepancies in character portrayals or plot points across different mediums.
• Suggestions for better communication and collaboration: Improved communication and collaboration between film and television production teams are vital.

To solve the continuity issue, Marvel needs:

• A unified vision for the overall MCU narrative, regardless of the medium.
• A central creative team overseeing both film and television projects to ensure consistency.
• Clear guidelines for character development and storylines to prevent conflicting narratives.

Addressing Fan Criticism and Feedback

Engaging constructively with fan feedback is essential for improving Marvel's future output. A balance between creative vision and audience response is key to long-term success.

The Importance of Listening to Audience Concerns

While Marvel doesn't need to cater to every fan demand, actively listening to and addressing concerns is crucial.

• Examples of successful responses to fan feedback: Marvel has, at times, adapted to audience preferences, showing responsiveness.
• Examples of criticism that has been overlooked: Certain criticisms regarding repetitive storylines or underdeveloped characters have not been adequately addressed.

Improving Marvel's responsiveness requires:

• Establishing transparent channels for fan feedback.
• Actively engaging with online discussions and addressing concerns respectfully.
• Demonstrating willingness to adapt and learn from audience responses.

Improving Diversity and Representation

Increasing diversity and representation remains a crucial area for improvement.

• Examples of steps already taken: Marvel has made strides in representing diverse characters.
• Areas where further improvements are needed: Greater representation of LGBTQ+ characters and characters with disabilities.
• Specific suggestions for increasing diversity: Prioritizing diverse voices in writing, directing, and production.

Improving Marvel's inclusivity requires:

• Authentic representation that goes beyond superficial tokenism.
• Creating storylines that celebrate diverse cultures and perspectives.
• Ensuring diversity at all levels of production, reflecting the richness and diversity of the real world.

Conclusion

Improving Marvel requires a concerted effort to address several key areas. The over-reliance on familiar formulas, inconsistent quality across platforms, and the need to better address fan concerns and improve diversity are all crucial aspects that need attention. Key takeaways include the vital importance of embracing risk-taking in storytelling, implementing robust quality control measures, ensuring consistent narratives across all platforms, and increasing authentic representation within the MCU. How can we help improve Marvel? What are your ideas for improving Marvel's future projects? The potential for growth and innovation within the Marvel universe is vast; let's work together to ensure its continued success.