The directors of Avengers: Endgame have responded to critics of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It has been more than three years since Joe and Anthony Russo's last Marvel movie. However, while the Russos are not actively developing anything in the franchise at this point, opting to focus on their ventures at AGBO Films, they are still deeply tied to the MCU as fans of the universe.
Kicking off in 2008 via Robert Downey Jr. and Jon Favreau's Iron Man, the MCU has exponentially grown over the years. While never perfect, the MCU was able to become one of the most successful franchises in the world, with other studios trying to emulate both both its business and creative approach to building an interconnected world. Throughout its existance, there have been persistent criticisms of the MCU, such as accusations of lackluster villains, underwhelming visuals, and poor musical choices. Marvel Studios has since addressed those by introducing compelling MCU villains like Killmonger, Thanos, and Wenwu, and more diverse and exciting soundtracks, such as in the recent Ms. Marvel. However, there has recently been a new wave of criticisms directed at Marvel, with audiences calling the MCU's Phase 4 somewhat disjointed and directionless, as opposed to the well-planned and expertly executed Infinity Saga.
Speaking with THR, the filmmakers were asked about their thoughts on the criticism of the MCU, especially in light of the divisive Phase 4. The Russos cite this seeming need to hate the franchise as "sad and cynical and pessimistic," adding that the studio's projects mean a lot to many people. Specifically, the directors outlined the emotional meaning of MCU movies to young kids. Read the full quote below:
"When I was 19, I used to love U2. And then they started getting some commercial success, beyond their MTV early days, where they were the biggest band in the world. And I was like, 'I hate U2. I’m sick of U2. They’re so ubiquitous!' That was just my ego trying to define myself against the masses. Then, 10 years later, I was like, 'I fucking love U2. Why did I do that?' I outgrew it. It feels like a very juvenile conversation. The whole thing feels sad and cynical and pessimistic. You’re talking about movies that 10-year-olds are weeping over and begging to go see. They’ll remember for decades that they were there with their grandfather. Like, give me a f**king break.""
The criticism of Marvel Studios hasn't just come from movie-goers. Several notable directors like Martin Scorsese have lambasted the MCU, even going as far as saying that it isn't "cinema." While fans, cast and crew involved with the franchise have come out and defended Marvel movies, criticisms against the projects continue to gain traction with each new industry figure that weighs in. The Russos' response to this backlash against Phase 4 mirrors many peoples' defense of the wider MCU, arguing that diminishing a major and widely beloved franchise is somewhat pretentious. Ultimately, the filmmakers believe that audiences should be able to enjoy what they want to.
That said, it is hard to ignore the fact that the MCU's Phase 4 has been getting more backlash, even from long-time fans of the franchise. Several projects, such as Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, have proved divisive — something that was very rare in the Avengers: Endgame era. This may have something to do with the fact that the core audience of the universe is getting older and their tastes are changing, as the Russos' U2 comparison alludes to. However, despite some criticisms, the MCU remains a beloved franchise that is important and special to countless audiences worldwide, and the directors' comments represent many of these fans.
Source: THR
