Photo by Corey Nickols/Getty Images for IMDb
The Marvels director Nia DaCosta has expressed her thoughts on Martin Scorsese’s opinion that superhero films are “not cinema.” DaCosta, known for directing films like Little Woods and the Candyman reboot, revealed that she understands Scorsese’s perspective while still appreciating both his era of filmmaking and the impact of superhero movies.
During a panel discussion titled “How to Save Cinema” in Glastonbury, UK, DaCosta shared her views on how her filmmaking heroes perceive the Marvel franchise. She mentioned, “[H]e’s been making movies since like the ’70s, and … that’s a period in filmmaking that I’m super inspired by, probably the most inspired by. And also, as a 12-year-old, when I saw Spider-Man in theaters for the first time, I was like, ‘Holy shit.'” DaCosta emphasized that filmmakers from the ’70s inspired her with their ability to tell unconventional stories, while superhero movies like Spider-Man captivated her with their thrilling action.
Despite her appreciation for Scorsese, DaCosta made it clear that she supports the preservation of diverse cinema beyond the realm of superheroes and blockbusters. She concluded her statement by saying, “My own personal experience is I love [Scorsese] so much, and I also like Spider-Man.”
DaCosta also discussed the challenges she faced in directing a Marvel film. Initially, she wasn’t a big fan of Captain Marvel, but when she learned that her favorite characters, Ms. Marvel and Monica Rambeau, would feature prominently, she eagerly accepted the opportunity. However, she soon realized that The Marvels was essentially “a sequel to five things,” which made her question how she ended up with such a demanding task.
DaCosta revealed that she is still working on refining the film, which has been delayed until November 2023. The pressure is on to ensure that The Marvels delivers on entertainment value as it serves as a continuation of multiple storylines. This aspect of blockbuster filmmaking aligns with Scorsese’s comments in 2019, stating that Marvel films prioritize entertainment over challenging narratives. While some may argue that superhero movies are still part of the cinema landscape, it’s important to acknowledge differing perspectives.
We appreciate Scorsese’s dedication to mature and emotionally complex dramas, like his upcoming project Killers of the Flower Moon. It’s a realm he excels in, and we can’t wait to see his artistic vision unfold.
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