The Marvel Cinematic Universe is facing a lot of storms this year, one of which is called the ‘M-She-U Controversy’, the backlash it is currently receiving from trying to explore new roads that many started to call the franchise “woke”.
Phase 4 is undoubtedly the most talked about chapter of the MCU. From fans’ dissatisfaction with the visual effects to the growing diversity of cast members, Marvel Studios is certainly up to something grand.
It took a decade for the studio to cast a black actor for the lead role in Black Panther, and another for a woman to lead the superhero genre in Captain Marvel. When we look at the latest roster of MCU movies and series, there is a noticeable stride in diversity in terms of race, gender, and even cultural representations. This is a massive change and a delightful improvement in the entertainment industry, but as every positive thing has its own merit, some people will always find fault.
What Is The M-She-U Controversy All About?
One of the current backlashes that Marvel Studios is handling is the notorious ‘M-She-U’, a term used by social media users to criticize and condemn MCU’s method of female representation. Out of all the female-led shows, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law receives the biggest blow.
Is Marvel Studios aware of this? Yes. Episode 3 of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law addressed this issue in the most amusing way. Most of the fictional tweets shown were directed against female superheroes. A series of social media posts containing hate messages from the public were also displayed. One of them even said, “They took the Hulk’s manhood away and gave it to a woman?”
That statement alone is the very reason why Marvel Studios is exploring new ways to make the audience recognize that female characters are not stealing anything from anyone. They have always been part of the story since day one, and they have played an integral role in the development of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Look at this data: 21 out of the 23 films in The Infinity Saga were led by white men. As we all progress into a new decade, this shift must be a breakthrough for both the industry and the general public. Opening new doors and opportunities for new characters should be a welcoming sight, not a threat to anyone’s ego. Marvel Studios’ road to inclusivity and diversity is a giant leap towards unity through creative expression.
Is Marvel Studios Doing Something About This Backlash?
Marvel Studios’ awareness of the M-She-U controversy shows that their top priorities are creative freedom and relevant change. While many viewers would look at this as “pushing an agenda”, it only demonstrates the studio’s commitment to becoming a platform for diversity and a voice for the silenced. Look at how many kids were inspired when they saw Chadwick Boseman become the Black Panther. Look at how many women were encouraged to speak up and to take up space when Brie Larson became Captain Marvel.
Female superheroes may still be a new trend for some, but if we step back and take a trip down memory lane, women have always been at the forefront of every Marvel story. Jennifer Walter’s She-Hulk, Natasha Romanoff’s Black Widow, and Jane Foster’s Mighty Thor are only a fraction of all the Marvel female superheroes! They all existed in the comics universe even before the dawn of MCU, and they have been kicking ass and representing the voice of women even before people concocted this “woke” culture.
The MCU Is Pushing Forward, Not Agenda
In this sense, is Marvel Studios really mishandling established characters to push an agenda? No. Many fans are just not ready to see female superheroes enjoying the spotlight and getting the recognition they deserve. Besides, they are all created to act as secretaries or love interests, are they not?
What are your thoughts about the M-She-U controversy? Do you think female superheroes are “stealing” the spotlight from their male counterparts? Do you believe Marvel Studios is trying to push an agenda? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section!
