The least successful Marvel film is also the most cringe-worthy

“The Marvels” has become emblematic of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) recent challenges, experiencing its lowest opening in the franchise’s history. For over two decades, the MCU stood as a cinematic juggernaut, featuring beloved characters like Captain America, Iron Man, and Spider-Man. Its success, both critically and commercially, propelled it to generate roughly $30 billion, according to Statista, surpassing even the “Star Wars” universe.

However, the landscape changed after the release of “Avengers: Endgame,” a film that, while a blockbuster, marked a significant narrative shift by killing off and aging beloved characters. The aftermath left characters like Spider-Man, Thor, and other lesser-known MCU figures at the forefront. This transition coincided with the MCU’s commitment to injecting more diversity, political undertones, and contemporary relevance into its storytelling.

“The Marvels” represents a continuation of this evolution, embracing a narrative trajectory that began with “Endgame.” The film garnered attention for its extended scene featuring an all-female team-up, a moment criticized for its perceived pandering and cringeworthiness. In “The Marvels,” director Nia DaCosta extends this theme, dedicating an hour and 45 minutes to the trio of female heroes facing off against a new female antagonist, Dar-Benn, played by Zawe Ashton.

Despite promotional efforts, including the final trailer featuring Iron Man, Captain America, and Thanos, “The Marvels” struggled to resonate with audiences. The film’s diversity-focused approach, with two of the main characters being women of color, reflects the MCU’s broader commitment to inclusivity. However, the lukewarm reception raises questions about whether the emphasis on diversity has overshadowed the core elements that once defined the MCU’s success.

Critics argue that “The Marvels” and the broader shift in the MCU toward woke themes represent a departure from the franchise’s earlier, more predictable comic book movie formula. In the past, MCU films typically featured a group of heroes overcoming villains in dynamic and action-packed narratives. However, recent entries have incorporated social and political commentary, leading some to express concerns about the dilution of the original formula that drew audiences in.

Fox host Greg Gutfeld encapsulates this sentiment, stating, “But today, entertainment is now secondary to diversity, and every cast must be as colorful as a bag of Peanut M&Ms and twice as nutty. It’s the universe according to Disney.”

The failure of “The Marvels” has prompted reactions from various quarters, with some expressing disappointment over the gloating associated with the film’s low box office performance. However, others argue that criticism of diverse movies, even when perceived as subpar, is often met with resistance due to the prevailing cultural emphasis on inclusivity.

Since “Endgame,” the MCU has witnessed the infusion of woke themes, evident in spin-off TV shows like “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” which delved into issues of racism. Additionally, the announcement of upcoming projects, such as “Ironheart” featuring the first trans actor in the MCU, indicates a continued commitment to diversity and representation.

The disappointment with “The Marvels” echoes broader concerns about Disney’s influence on the MCU, with fans questioning whether the franchise’s shift towards inclusivity is compromising its ability to deliver compelling and entertaining narratives. As the MCU navigates these challenges, the tension between promoting diversity and meeting audience expectations remains a central theme in discussions surrounding the future of this cinematic universe.

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