A hot topic when it comes to superhero films these days is the need for representation when it comes to both POC and female characters. Sure, we’re getting our first African-American led superhero film (Blade isn’t exactly a superhero film) when Black Panther hits theaters in 2018 & female-led superhero film when Wonder Woman hits theaters next summer but the upcoming Thor: Ragnarok is also taking two major steps in the right direction when it comes to these matters.
The Taika Waitii directed film will not only introduce Tessa Thompson as the Asgardian superheroine ‘Valkyrie’, but the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first female supervillain on the big screen in the form of Cate Blanchett’s ‘Hela’. While speaking with The Daily Beast, Waititi commented on the need for female representation in these films and his feelings on the matter.
“Everyone’s aware of the need [for POC casting] and also the need for female characters. But female representation is something I feel is even still behind in the conversation about representation. It’s something that’s equally important to my mind. So it’s great having female heroes.”
The director continued and added the following regarding his excitement for being the first director to introduce a female villain to the Marvel Cinematic Universe on the big screen.
“This film has [Marvel’s] first female villain, and that’s exciting for me. I want to see more females onscreen and not just dudes. There’s nothing wrong with that, but there’s a lot of it in the world. We need more representation of all kinds. In all seriousness, from what I’ve seen—although it’s not like I’ve been around a lot of studios—they are aware of it, and they’re very conscious and vocal. I’ve heard people say, ‘We need to make them better.’”
Do you agree with what Waititi had to say on the topic? Sound off with your thoughts in the comments section below.
Source: The Daily Beast
