Summary

Director Nia DaCosta brings an exciting twist to the upcoming Marvel movie, The Marvels, with a unique portrayal of the new villain, Dar-Benn, breaking away from the traditional comic book version. The character of Dar-Benn in the film is described as a “deep-cut” compared to the comics, with a backstory that involves a significant showdown with Captain Marvel and motivations that are both relatable and logical. The release of The Marvels faces hurdles, including critiques from its own fan base, challenges within the visual effects industry, and the potential impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike, which may result in unconventional promotions for the film. However, the anticipation for Carol Danvers’ return could lead to box office success.

Few joys match the thrill of diving into the pages of comic books to gain foresight about the next big movie plot twist or character revelation. Loyal followers of the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe know this all too well. However, in a twist worthy of the comics themselves, director Nia DaCosta is set to offer something different in the upcoming Marvel movie, The Marvels.

In a candid chat with Total Film Magazine, DaCosta, celebrated for her work in Candyman, shares how the MCU’s representation of the new villain, Dar-Benn, portrayed by Zawe Ashton, breaks away from the traditional confines of the comic book version. She also explained that t’s not just about swapping the gender.

While traces of the original comic narrative serve as a foundation, the screenplay’s evolution brought with it transformative changes to the character of Dar-Benn. DaCosta admits,

“I would just smoothly say not very, minus their viewpoint on the Kree and the Kree’s positioning in the universe. We were inspired by the [comic-book] period of two emperors and there was some more of that story in the first versions of the script. But as we took over and moved into our own space and what this story was, more of that shed away. But in terms of energetically being a Kree imperialist, she’s similar.”

To further explain the cinematic portrayal of Dar-Benn, Mary Livanos, the movie’s executive producer, describes the character as a “deep-cut” when compared to the comics. Delving deeper, she reveals a character molded by an epochal showdown with Captain Marvel in yesteryears, heralding a new chapter for the Kree empire. Livanos adds an enticing teaser, emphasizing that the motivations behind Dar-Benn’s actions are not just relatable, but also bring forth a compelling narrative where audiences can see the logic behind her moves.

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The Marvels’ Path to Release Faces Internal Strifes and Fan Skepticism
Marvel Studios

As The Marvels readies for its grand release, the movie sails through turbulent waters. The MCU, post its billion-dollar success with Captain Marvel in 2019, finds itself battling not just inter-galactic threats, but also critiques from its very own fan base. With murmurs of superhero fatigue setting in and qualms about the declining calibre of its offerings, Marvel faces challenges from within as well.

In the backdrop, the visual effects industry sees a wave of unionization, holding the Avengers’ home accountable for subpar working environments. As if things weren’t already challenging, the current SAG-AFTRA strike adds to the complications. The strike, depending on its duration, might lead to The Marvels debuting without the typical actor-led promotions, a scenario previously unheard of for an MCU blockbuster.

But it’s not all gloomy. A glimmer of hope remains as eager fans anticipate the return of Carol Danvers, embodied by the talented Brie Larson. This wave of enthusiasm could potentially catapult The Marvels to box office success, echoing its predecessor.

The Marvels serves as both a captivating movie and an indicator of the MCU’s transformative narrative. Will it emerge victorious, or will it fold under the weight of expectations?

The Marvels will debut in theaters on November 10.