Martin Scorsese is back at it with his opinions on comic book movies and he sounds more out of touch than ever.
Movies have been a part of the world’s culture for over a century. As time has gone on, films have evolved. The stories have become deeper, and the performers and the visuals improved. Throughout the years, more genres have emerged. Dramas, comedies, and romances could have been the first three to become popular. Over the years, action and horror films have become more generated billions of dollars. Now, comic book movies rule the theaters, and Martin Scorsese doesn’t like it.
Martin Scorsese has taken offense to the popularity of comic book movies. Years ago, he said that Marvel movies aren’t cinema. He continued this idea years later. Recently, the legendary director has continued his disdain.
During an interview with GQ, Scorsese said it’s time to fight back against comic book movies. He continued with, “The danger there is what it’s doing to our culture.” Honestly, this sounds like Mr. Scorsese has an obsession he needs to let go of.
The first thing to point out is a direct quote from Martin Scorsese. He said that filmmakers needed to fight back stronger. “Because there are going to be generations now that think movies are only those — that’s what movies are.” He went on to mention that the filmmakers themselves have to lead the charge. “…it’s got to come from the grassroots level. It’s gotta come from the filmmakers themselves. And you’ll have, you know, the Safdie brothers, and you’ll have Chris Nolan, you know what I mean?”
This writer is aware Christopher Nolan has created some of the best movies of all time. However, Nolan is part of the reason comic book movies have become popular. The Dark Knight Trilogy was part of the movement that made superhero movies profitable. Sure, Spider-Man, Batman (1989), and the X-Men helped. Nevertheless, Nolan may have done more.
Furthermore, Scorsese is wrong. Yes, comic book movies are popular and generate billions of dollars every year. Yes, they could be considered the most popular genre among fans. But, they’re far from the only movies out.
Marvel and DC together may only produce six movies a year. Other companies may put out the same combined. That’s a small amount considering the hundreds of movies that debut every year. It should noted that only three of the ten grossing movies are comic book-related. Barbie and The Super Mario Bros. Movie are the highest-grossing movies of the year. They’re probably the most popular of 2023 as well.
Finally, comic book projects are just another category of movies. Like gangster flicks and horror films, superhero movies are on a run (a historic and profitable one, nonetheless). Eventually, something else will take its place. Scorsese saying that cinema needs to be saved shows the lack of respect for those films and, more importantly, their creators. He’s also insulted the people who like them by saying it’s all they know. And, even if it is, who cares? Let people enjoy what they do.
What do you think about Martin Scorsese’s comments? Let us know in the comments below.