Are superhero movies for kids? It is a complicated question with a variety of perspectives and considerations. While the answer may be difficult to definitively ascertain, there are various points of view that can be taken into account.
At first glance, it may appear that superhero films are predominantly designed with young audiences in mind. After all, many of the stories, acts and themes within films of this genre are geared towards a younger viewership. This rings especially true when looking at the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, as they often emphasize relationships between the lead characters and thrilling action set pieces.
However, studies have shown that the demographics of superhero films have shifted over the years. According to data from research firms such as comScore, viewers aged 25–44 accounted for the majority of the box office attendance at superhero films during the first half of 2018. The data also suggested that the percentage of people under 18 was proportionally smaller than adult attendance in the same period. This may have to do with the fact that Hollywood studios, who produce most of the superhero films released, have tailored much of their material for a more mature audience.
This strategy was demonstrated most prominently by the critically acclaimed superhero films of the past few years, the majority of which featured protagonists struggling with adult issues. Franchises such as The Dark Knight trilogy, Logan and The Avengers discussed topics such as vigilantism, revenge and responsibility. The films in these series intended to challenge their audiences, thus providing an engaging and stimulating experience.
This is not to say that superhero films cannot be entertaining for young audiences. Though these films deal with heavier and more mature subjects, they often remain rooted in the same heroic themes that drew people to the genre in the first place. Films such as Thor Ragnarok, Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man: Homecoming feature vibrant visual sequences and colorful action sequences that would delight children, providing an experience that is both lighthearted and enjoyable.
However, parents should be aware that films of this type may have scenes that are inappropriate for children. While a conscious effort has been made to ensure films are appropriate for a wider audience, there can be some scenes that are considered mature content. These scenes may feature violence, blood and/or other topics that some parents may prefer their children to avoid.
Ultimately, the decision of whether superhero movies are suitable for kids falls on the parent. Parents need to consider their child’s maturity and overall psychological make-up before choosing films to watch. If the child is old enough to handle the themes mentioned in these films, then these films can be enjoyed regardless of age.
Absence Of Superhero Movies In Schools
It is becoming increasingly common for educators to show superhero films to students as part of their lessons. As society has come to embrace the genre, films such as The Avengers, Iron Man and The Dark Knight have been used as teaching tools. Educators have argued that superhero films can be used to encourage critical thinking and provide a platform for discussions on social topics.
However, this may not be an entirely beneficial approach. Since superhero films are so sensationalized, they may inadvertently marginalize quieter, smaller films. Additionally, by overemphasizing a single genre, teachers risk limiting their students’ scope of understanding with respect to the broader realm of films.
Furthermore, it could be argued that showing superhero films in schools can make it easier for students to trivialize or dismiss messages of injustice or oppression. Superhero films often portray a flawed society in which vigilante justice is the main force of good, casting doubt on the basic foundations of the justice system. This could lead students to form a pessimistic worldview, thus counteracting any potentially positive learnings.
Overall, screening superhero films in school should be done with caution. As these films continue to dominate the film industry, it is important to ensure that educators are only showing heroic films that provide balanced messages and stimulate genuine discussions.
The Dark Side Of Superhero Films
While superhero films have proven to be immensely popular, a darker side can be seen in some of their content and messages. While superhero films often portray heroes as heroes, they also feature antagonists who are thinly veiled representations of “the other”. We often see these villains portrayed as immigrants and refugees, thus reinforcing dangerous stereotypes and offering an unwelcoming image of these communities.
The same can be said of their portrayal of female characters. Often, female characters are depicted as secondary figures who only exist to serve the male hero’s purpose, with little to no development or screen time. This overlooks the potential of female characters in the genre, as well as their potential as strong and inspiring figures.
Finally, it could be argued that superhero films, while being great sources of entertainment, condition audiences to become passive and apathetic when it comes to the injustices in society. By featuring vigilante justice as a way of addressing those issues, these films may lead people to detach from the core problem in the world and shy away from actually standing up for what is right.
Though superhero films have proven to be tremendously enjoyable, parents and educators should take a conscious effort to ensure that the genres messages are not being misconstrued. As popular as these stories may be, it is important to ensure that we are not being desensitized to real world issues and that our children are being exposed to positive messages in a healthy manner.
Real Life Superheroes
Though superhero films are mainly created purely for entertainment purposes, their influence in the real world has been felt in unexpected ways. This has in part been due to the rise of real-life superheroes who, inspired by their on-screen counterparts, have taken it upon themselves to fight crime in cities around the world.
These individuals often dedicate their time and efforts to charitable causes, striving to make the world around them a better place. By donning homemade costumes and taking to the streets, these real-life superheroes are often seen as the beacons of hope in their communities. In doing so, they challenge the prejudice that these on-screen heroes exist solely for entertainment purposes and have no practical purpose in the real world.
Moreover, these individuals operate outside of the framework of the justice system, offering an alternative solution to crime. By bringing attention to the darker aspects of society, these heroes may be more effective in publicizing issues such as injustice, oppression and poverty. For this reason, real-life superheroes can be seen as a force for good, offering citizens a symbol to look up to.
This not to say that these individuals do not face any risks. As they attempt to protect the public, they may be subject to aggression and violence. Additionally, since they are not officially part of the law enforcement apparatus, they lack the protection of the law and may find themselves subject to legal action when they intervene in criminal cases.
Regardless, real-life superheroes are an important part of the superhero genre. By taking on the mantle of their on-screen counterparts, these brave individuals bring a sense of hope and inspiration to people. In doing so, they have proven themselves to be the real heroes of the current era.
The Decline Of Superhero Films
As the popularity of superhero films has grown, opinions on the genre have started to change. The mass success of these films has caused fatigue and general disinterest in the genre, with some calling it “played out” or simply “tired”.
This isn’t to say that the genre doesn’t have potential to surprise and delight audiences. However, the sheer amount of superhero films released has caused some to worry about the state of the genre’s creativity. People involved with the film industry have criticized studios for relying on tried-and-true formulas and narratives, leading to a sense of monotony when it comes to the content of superhero films.
These concerns have been compounded by the fact that some of the biggest studios have shifted their focus from making traditional superhero films to more prospective markets. This has caused worry among those in the superhero community, as people are scared of the lack of funding that could be preserved for possible new projects.
Though it is uncertain whether the genre can be revitalized, it is important to consider the long-term impact of superhero films. With the genre being near-ubiquitous in the popular media, it is critical that its stories don’t become stagnant and dull. By offering stories with the potential to amuse, shock and enthrall, superhero films can remain relevant and keep audiences engaged for years to come.
The Growing Presence Of Superheroes Across Media
Superheroes are no longer confined to just movies and television. Today, superheroes have become an integral part of multiple mediums, from books and comics to video games and even stage shows. In doing so, these figures have become ubiquitous fixtures in the modern world, popping up in various stories and narratives.
Specifically, superhero video games and comics have been particularly successful in recent years. The video game industry has seen particular success with titles such as Spider-Man PS4 and Batman Arkham Knight, with these experiences offering players unique and thrilling takes on the iconic characters. Additionally, the comic book medium has also seen prosperous fortunes, with series such as Arkham Asylum, Watchmen and Venom providing readers with original and captivating superhero stories.
These new mediums provide superhero stories with a legitimate platform to blossom, thus challenging the perception that superhero narratives are only meant to be enjoyed on the big screen. As these stories diversify and expand, superhero franchises have been able to reach new audiences and potentially create fans for life.
Perhaps most importantly, these mediums have allowed for superhero stories to explore different avenues and perspectives. Video games, for example, allow for players to take direct control of the story, resulting in an active and engaging experience. Additionally, comics provide readers the chance to escape into the enveloping and enthralling world of superheroes, allowing them to explore the possibility and potential of these characters and explore stories that may not be seen on the big screen.
Ultimately, the growing presence of superheroes across multiple mediums has been a net benefit to the overall genre. By providing stories and experiences never before seen, these mediums have kept the genre alive and vibrant, facilitating stories and experiences that were never deemed possible in the past.
