Extraordinary beings donning civilian clothes, persistently combating the world’s evil forces, have generated fascination among the masses since their creation. Superheroes capture the American public’s adoration through numerous ways— whether it is through comic books, video games, merchandise, etc. Although not every individual is an avenger aficionado, flicks centered on superheroes and their corresponding worlds manage to shatter box-office records yearly. As individuals, ranging from avid fans to amateur movie-goers, anticipate the upcoming release (May 1) of “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” I cannot help but ponder: will Hollywood forever produce such films?
2014 ushered in Marvel’s sci-fi dark horse, “Guardians of the Galaxy,” (generating approximately $94.3m its opening weekend) and a well-received sequel, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” ($95m). Hollywood juggernauts “Avengers: Age of Ultron” and “Ant-Man” lead this year’s superhero season, stirring Marvel fans with the release of their teaser trailers last Oct. 2014 and Jan. 2015.
Perhaps their integration of family-friendly comedy, computer-generated imagery (CGI), and energetic battles provides a perfect, money-making formula. These components immerse viewers into a multi-faceted realm that brings its complex characters to life— hence the name “Marvel Universe.”
However, how many of these flicks, chock-full of explosions and abnormally attractive casts, can audiences tolerate?
Personally, my capacity for these extraordinary beings that vehemently eliminate crime (police officers on steroids) will never reach its maximum. Whether it is DC Entertainment, which produced “The Dark Knight” Trilogy, or Marvel Studios, with its trademark red and white logo— I welcome all superhero flicks with the same anticipation.
Even if audiences grow tired of their virtuous vigilantes and vindictive villains, Hollywood is obviously not ready to put these beloved characters to rest.