In 2019, Martin Scorsese sent shockwaves through the film community when he said that Marvel movies shouldn't be considered “movies.” His comments divided filmmakers and audiences. But recent comments from Scorsese's friend and fellow filmmaker George Lucas suggest a shift in attitudes. Is Scorsese, the respected director of such classics as “Taxi Driver” and “Goodfellas,” lowering his standing in the superhero movie scene?
Speaking at Cannes, George Lucas addressed the ongoing debate over whether comic book movies qualify as art. When asked about Scorsese's initial rejection of the genre, Lucas hinted at possible changes in style. “Film is art in the moving image,” Lucas said. “So when the picture moves, it's a movie. I think Marty has changed it a little bit.”
Lucas' comments are particularly interesting given his own career heavily invested in CGI-driven, all-ages films, particularly the “Star Wars” story. Though some still debate the point of Scorsese's change of heart, Lucas' comments have certainly rekindled conversations about artistic values in Marvel films.
Early criticism of Scorsese was not without consequence. Following his comments in 2019, other major filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola and David Fincher echoed his sentiment, describing Marvel movies as “disgusting” and questioning their artistic quality It sounds that this phenomenon affected the criticism of superhero films. Previous Marvel films have received a lot of positive reviews, but there has been a noticeable shift in critical opinion since then.
In the end, the true impact of Scorsese's comments might not be his critique itself, but the dialogue it encouraged. Whether you're a die-hard Marvel fan or a lover of classic cinema, this debate is a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of film and its power to provoke thought and discussion.
What do you think about George Lucas's suggestion that Martin Scorsese might be softening his stance on Marvel movies? Do you believe superhero films deserve to be considered “cinema,” or do you side with Scorsese's original critique? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
