Why Martin Scorsese is Right About Marvel Movies

Summary

In this video, the ongoing debate about Martin Scorsese's criticism of Marvel films is explored. Scorsese argues that while franchise films like Marvel are impressive, they differ from what he considers true 'cinema'—films that prioritize emotional depth and thematic exploration over spectacle. The video discusses the impact of large franchises on the film industry, highlighting how they dominate theaters, pushing smaller, artistic films to streaming platforms. The video suggests broadening one's film palate and exploring cinema beyond big-budget blockbusters, with a recommendation for Mubi as a platform for discovering art films.

Takeaways

• 😀 Martin Scorsese's controversial stance is that Marvel films are not 'cinema,' but a different form of filmmaking entirely.
• 😀 Scorsese emphasizes that his criticism is not a condemnation of Marvel films themselves, but a distinction between different types of films.
• 😀 While Marvel films often feature emotional beats, these moments are typically seen as filler between action sequences, rather than central to the narrative.
• 😀 The core of the difference, according to Scorsese, lies in how themes are explored—Marvel films prioritize action, while traditional 'cinema' focuses on emotional depth and exploration.
• 😀 Scorsese laments that the rise of large franchise films like Marvel is pushing out traditional, artistic films from theaters due to limited screen space.
• 😀 The increasing dominance of franchise films in theaters has resulted in fewer opportunities to watch artistic, independent films in a communal theater setting.
• 😀 Scorsese is not arguing that Marvel films have no value, but that they represent a different kind of movie experience that doesn't align with his vision of 'cinema.'
• 😀 There's a growing economic and cultural shift as many independent and artistic films are being relegated to streaming platforms like Netflix, instead of having theatrical releases.
• 😀 Despite the rise of blockbuster franchises, Scorsese acknowledges the continued existence of quality cinema, even if it's harder to access in theaters.
• 😀 Platforms like Mubi are helping sustain artistic cinema by providing a curated selection of independent, international, and hard-to-find films for viewers online.

Q & A

What is Martin Scorsese's opinion about Marvel films?

Martin Scorsese believes that Marvel films are not 'cinema' in the traditional sense. While he acknowledges the skill and talent involved in their creation, he feels these films prioritize spectacle over emotional depth, which is a defining characteristic of the 'cinema' he champions.

How does Scorsese define 'cinema'?

Scorsese defines 'cinema' as a form of artistic film that focuses on emotional depth, personal stories, and artistic experimentation. For him, cinema is about exploring the human experience in a profound and intimate way, which he believes is often lacking in large blockbuster films.

Why does Scorsese feel that Marvel films aren't 'cinema'?

Scorsese feels that Marvel films aren't 'cinema' because they are designed to be thrill rides, with emotional moments acting as filler between the action scenes. In contrast, the films Scorsese values prioritize emotional depth and thematic exploration as the core of the viewing experience.

What is the primary difference between 'cinema' and 'theme park films' according to the transcript?

The primary difference lies in the focus of the films: 'cinema' focuses on emotional depth and personal narratives, whereas 'theme park films' like Marvel movies prioritize visual spectacle, action, and broad appeal, with emotional moments often being secondary to the excitement of the action sequences.

How does the dominance of franchise films affect the availability of artistic cinema in theaters?

The increasing popularity of franchise films like those from Marvel crowds out space in theaters, which results in fewer opportunities for smaller, auteur-driven films to be shown. This is pushing many art films to streaming platforms, making it harder for audiences to experience these films in a communal theater setting.

What does Scorsese mean when he says that the rise of franchise films is 'crowding out' other kinds of cinema?

Scorsese argues that as franchise films dominate theaters, they take up valuable screen time and resources, leaving less room for independent and artistic films. This shift leads to fewer opportunities for more niche or experimental films to be viewed in the traditional theatrical environment.

Why does Scorsese believe that long-form TV isn't 'cinema'?

Scorsese considers long-form TV to be a separate art form due to its different structure and viewing experience. While he acknowledges the value of long-form TV, he argues that it doesn't fit within the traditional definition of 'cinema,' which is often focused on a single, immersive narrative experience in a theater.

What role do streaming platforms like Mubi play in the current film landscape?

Streaming platforms like Mubi offer a valuable space for art-house and independent films that may not get theatrical releases due to the dominance of blockbuster franchises. Mubi curates a rotating selection of films that showcase international cinema, independent films, and festival favorites, helping to sustain the more artistic side of filmmaking.

How does Scorsese’s view on film relate to the broader debate about the future of the film industry?

Scorsese’s perspective highlights a shift in the film industry, where large-budget, franchise films are increasingly taking over the market, potentially at the expense of more artistic and independent films. His comments underscore concerns that the diversity of cinematic experiences might be reduced if this trend continues, especially in traditional theater spaces.

What is the underlying message in Scorsese's critique of Marvel films?

The underlying message is not that Marvel films are inherently bad or worthless, but that the rise of such films might lead to a lack of variety in what audiences are exposed to in theaters. Scorsese’s critique is a call for the preservation of space for diverse cinematic experiences that engage with deeper emotional and thematic elements.