For decades, superhero movies have been the peak of movie storytelling. Often based on comic books, superhero movies have complex storylines and larger-than-life heroes that inspire kids and adults both. Even though these movies are generally complete fiction, they often have relatable themes about hope, justice and bravery. However, some believe the genre is overdone, as superhero movies continually release while earning lower and lower profits. Newer films seem to be losing their appeal. Movies such as “Captain America: Brave New World” have not been able to attain the same level of success that movies such as “Captain America: Civil War” had.
One of the common arguments explaining why the genre has become more boring is that the stories have simply been overdone. With over 25 Marvel movies with classic heroes and villains that continually appear, only true superfans seem to want to watch every single one.
“Many superhero movies seem to have the same story lines and action sequences,” junior Tharun Dhamotharakannan explained.
While these movies may still have the same storylines and tropes of heroes defeating villains that made movies like “Avengers: Endgame” so popular, the simple overuse of these plot points may have made other movies much less appealing for the general public.
There are always a plethora of superhero movies at the theater, but keeping up with all of them can prove to be a Herculean task.
“There’s just too many movies to keep track of,” Dhamotharakannan explained.
An overabundance of movies may lead to the general audience feeling overwhelmed and unable to fully enjoy each movie for what it is without comparing it to other movies. When many movies seem to have the same themes, why would audiences attend every single one?
However, it is possible for superhero movies to still maintain commercial appeal among certain audiences.
“If you like comic books a lot or have a lot of free time, I feel like superhero movies would still be fun for you,” Dhamotharakannan explained.
Superhero movies are filled to the brim with fan service through references to past works, comic books or other media. This fan service can prove fulfilling for core fanbases, who have been long-time fans of the franchises.
For example, “Avengers: Endgame” had many callbacks, references and quotes from other Marvel movies. One of the most iconic lines in recent superhero movie history was “Avengers, assemble.” However, this line in itself was a callback to Captain America’s famous quote from previous movies.
While superhero movies in recent years haven’t been able to attain the same level of popularity and commercial success as in past years, they still have the iconic heroes and villains that make them special among core fanbases. While the genre may not reach the same heights that it once did, it is finding a new home by catering to loyal fans and supporters.
