As I write this article, I cannot help but think about how far myself and MARVEL have come since 2019. The MCU has grown exponentially with new characters, the exploration of storylines that were thought to be impossible to both create or recreate, but more importantly, the presentation of topics or ideas that resonate with fans of all sorts. Growing up with superheroes like Thor, Iron Man, and Captain America, I got to learn a lot about how their flaws make them unique and help them to grow. Newer MARVEL projects are focusing on more present issues that have been uniting fans that want to keep MARVEL in their lives, and it is one of the coolest things I’ve been able to witness.
Recent projects have covered the topic of sacrifice and loss, and I relate these topics to many of the television series produced and streamed on Disney Plus; Loki is a prime example of these topics. As a character who has been “killed” off multiple times in the span of his appearances in MARVEL, the television series did so much more to his character that allowed fans to see him as more than the “God of Mischief”. The series ends with the final episode being titled “Glorious Purpose”, a line strongly associated with the character. However, this finale has Loki saving the multiverse and the sacred timelines, therefore holding time in his hands. But all of that came with the sacrifices and losses he endured to prove he could be worthy of good. From being one of the fans’ favorite villains to now one of its most anticipated heroes in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, he allowed MARVEL fans to understand the depth of struggling to find self love and contentment in your decisions. The loss of companions and the sacrifice of oneself for the betterment of what’s around you is something MARVEL demonstrated heavily in this show, and it continues to do so.
Another project that I remember uniting fans in many ways was Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3. I will openly admit that there was not a single moment I did not cry when I saw this film in theaters; I know I am not the only one. The premise of this movie revolves once again around loss, but also animal cruelty. Rocket Raccoon’s backstory had many in tears due to graphic scenes of animal violence, while also showing how he grows from a creature in space only wanting money to now wanting to protect and save those in need. Many MARVEL fans appreciated seeing Rocket’s story come to light after all he did in the previous movies he was in, while also appreciating MARVEL portraying a harsh reality that is present today in animal cruelty and how we as humans have a chance to do better. Every time I rewatch this movie, there is always a part of me that gets emotional, but now it’s for seeing the growth of a character who represents growth and acceptance of your past.
From Peter Quill accepting he will not get his Gamora back, but instead letting her live her life in peace in the third installation of Guardians of the Galaxy, to the Scarlet Witch accepting that she cannot bring her children to her reality and must watch as they live in alternate realities without her, the theme of acceptance has been very relevant in today’s MARVEL projects. But, one topic just as important and just as relevant in these projects has been the subject of mental health. Thunderbolts* Spiderman: Brand New Day immediately comes to mind in terms of characters showing loneliness, self doubt, lack of self care, envy, anger, anxiety, and depression. These two films I know hit close to home for me personally in terms of relating to characters and their internal struggles, but I never thought it would be shown in a superhero movie. Thunderbolts* has all the heroes reminding the “villain” that he is not alone and that he is worthy of happiness, while Peter Parker learns to not endure pain or anger alone. Somewhere out there in their respective movies, someone wants to see them succeed. And in reality, these characters represent so many of the fans who have felt unseen or alone.
I am someone who relates heavily to many of the characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. To those who feel seen or heard by the characters in the MCU, please know how amazing your stories are and how you have the chance to make an impact. Never give up, push for your goals, and if something doesn’t go the correct way the first time, there are infinite timelines where you will succeed.