Superhero movies have become a popular and very profitable action genre over the past two decades. But do they constitute a fully-fledged movie genre? Or are they simply blockbuster action movies that happen to feature a few famous characters? To answer these questions, we must first understand what constitutes a movie genre and take a look at the history of superhero movies.
Genres are distinct styles of film defined by certain narrative conventions and themes. They are usually differentiated by its setting, characters, plot, and the emotional journey the protagonist goes through. When analysing superhero movies, it is undeniable that there are some common conventions throughout the various franchises. Superheroes are almost always larger-than-life characters with extraordinary abilities. Moreover, the majority of superhero movies establish a battle between good and evil, with the superhero emerging triumphant at the end. Generally, many superhero movies make use of special effects to support epic action sequences and, of course, so-called “superpowers”.
On the other hand, all superhero movies this far have been action movies, which are traditionally defined as movies featuring stunts, chases, fights, and frenetic action sequences. Such movies often feature protagonists who are now obliged to take risks in order to achieve their goals. Action movies often feature heroes moving against the forces of evil within the same movie, rather than being separate stories set in one larger universe. Examples of action movies include Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Matrix.
In this sense, it can be argued that superhero movies do not constitute a genre of their own but rather a sub-genre of the larger action movie genre. This is because most superhero movies include the same action-packed elements present in action movies—although perhaps on a grander scale, more extravagant set pieces and bigger special effects budgets. However, it can be argued that the narrative conventions and character arcs featured in superhero movies are much deeper and more complex than might be present in other action movies.
Although it is difficult to draw a clear line between superhero movies and other action movies, it is undeniable that superhero movies are one of the most lucrative and popular genres in the movie industry today. It has been recently estimated that superhero movies have grossed over $19 billion at the international box office and this number is expected to grow. Superhero movies also feature some of the most famous characters and some of the biggest stars.
Despite their undeniable success and popularity, it is still difficult to determine whether or not superhero movies constitute a genre of their own. Although some common narrative conventions can be identified, the majority of superhero movies have so far been action movies. Therefore, the debate surrounding the definition of the superhero movie genre continues and movie fans will likely have vastly different opinions.
Technical Innovations
The technical innovations required for the production of superhero movies have been one of the main drivers of their success. State-of-the-art visual effects and sound design have been essential for the production of many of the most beloved superhero movies in recent years. Such movies often require extensive post-production work and a highly trained team of visual effects artists to bring the cinematic vision of directors to the screen.
Moreover, the use of motion capture technologies has enabled filmmakers to realistically portray the motion of superheroes and their special powers on screen. Motion capture technology allows actors to perform in front of a specialised camera system and their movements are then digitally captured and used to create realistic special effects. This technology has been instrumental in the production of many of the most iconic scenes of modern superhero movies.
Another significant technical innovation has been the use of 3D modelling to create virtual environments and characters. This technology has enabled filmmakers to create detailed, digitally-enhanced fight scenes, as well as realistic virtual replicas of iconic cities such as New York and Gotham. The use of such technology has enabled filmmakers to create some truly spectacular visuals for superhero movies and this has been a major factor in their success.
Themes
Beyond the technical innovations necessary for the production of superhero movies, it is also worth looking at the themes that are common among many of them. Themes such as justice, morality, power, and the cost of heroism are common among superhero movies, although the exploration of such themes will vary depending on the specific movie. In many cases, the themes present in superhero movies are inspired by real-life issues and political debates.
Moreover, superhero movies often explore themes of duality, offering two different sides of the same coin. This can be seen in movies like The Dark Knight, in which Bruce Wayne and the Joker are two opposite sides of the same coin, both trying to achieve their goals in radically different ways. These themes of duality can also be seen in other superhero movies such as Iron Man, in which Tony Stark’s dual identity as Iron Man and CEO of Stark Industries is explored in depth.
Finally, the themes of family and friendship are also present in many superhero movies. Family is often a prominent theme in superhero stories, as superheroes often rely on their families and friends for moral support during difficult moments. Similarly, friendships between superheroes are often explored in great depth in various superhero movies.
Marketing and Merchandising
The success of superhero movies can also be attributed to the vast amount of marketing and merchandising campaigns that accompany them. Many superhero movies feature extensive marketing campaigns that seek to promote the movie before its release, including trailers, posters, and exclusive standalone clips. Additionally, many movies feature merchandise including toys, apparel, and videogames.
Merchandise plays a major role in the success of superhero movies, as it allows fans to interact with the characters and explore the fictional world created by the movie. Consumers can purchase merchandise linked to their favourite superhero movies and these products often come with exclusive content that expands the universe of the movies. This way, fans can become even more invested in the movies and their characters.
Furthermore, social media and digital platforms have become major tools for the promotion of superhero movies. Social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook have allowed the studios behind superhero movies to build large and engaged fanbases and to interact with them in meaningful ways. Additionally, digital platforms such as YouTube have become major platforms for the promotion of superhero movies and the merchandise related to them.
Legacy
The impact that superhero movies have had for the movie industry as a whole cannot be overstated. Without the success of these movies, it is unlikely that the industry would have embraced franchises and shared universes in the same way. Furthermore, the success of superhero movies has paved the way for the success of other non-superhero franchises, such as those based on video games, books, and other properties.
Furthermore, the immense financial success of superhero movies has earned them a great deal of respect from the wider entertainment industry. This success has inspired many young filmmakers to pursue similar projects and progressively pushed the boundaries of cinematic technology, paving the way for future filmmakers.
Finally, the success of superhero movies is not limited to the movie industry. Television shows, comic books, board games, and merchandise based on these characters are now commonplace, and they are consumed by millions of fans around the world.
Influence On Popular Culture
Superhero movies have had a profound influence on popular culture worldwide. Many of the most memorable characters and stories in recent popular culture have been inspired by superhero movies and the comics on which they are based. These movies have inspired a wide range of artwork, toys, and other merchandise, turning superheroes into pop culture icons.
Moreover, superhero movies have been used to comment on social and political issues on a larger scale. While some films have simply recycled the tropes of the genre, others have used the superhero tropes to engage with contemporary society. For example, films such as Logan and Black Panther have used superheroes to comment on the state of American society and explore the darker sides of the genre.
Finally, superhero movies have also been used to inspire young people to become more active participants in society. Through these films, young viewers are shown the consequences of their actions and are encouraged to use their own special gifts to create positive change in their local communities.
Business Model
The business model surrounding superhero movies is one of the major factors in their success. Superhero movies are usually produced as part of a larger shared universe that is controlled and managed by the studio behind them. This allows the production of sequels and spin-offs, often creating a steady stream of movies that can satisfy a film fan’s need for superhero action.
Moreover, superhero movies often feature extensive marketing and promotional campaigns that seek to build interest and hype for the movie months before its release. This can often generate huge pre-sales and help ensure its success at the box-office. Additionally, the success of these movies often leads to the production of spin-off movies, television shows, and merchandise.
Finally, studios often use the success of superhero movies to promote other films from the same universe or from the same studio. The success of one movie often leads to increased interest in other films from the same studio and the expectations for those films are often much higher. This can lead to a virtuous cycle of success for the studio.
Conclusion
In conclusion, superhero movies have become a hugely successful action genre over the past two decades. While it is difficult to precisely define the genre and distinguish it from other action films, it is undeniable that these movies have had an immense influence on popular culture. Furthermore, the technical innovations and the business model employed by studios have ensured the vast profitability of these films.
