Kevin Smith, the iconic filmmaker and comic book fan, has been a figurehead in the nerd culture for decades. Known for his work on Clerks and Mallrats, Smith has been a long-time fan of comic books and superhero movies. Kevin Smith also hosts a number of podcasts including Fatman Beyond, a podcast that delves into the world of geek culture, originally starting with a focus on Batman comics but now covering a variety of topics.
Recently, Kevin Smith made a comment on his podcast about the DC Universe, praising James Gunn that has stirred up conversations among fans. The comment by Kevin Smith is particularly noteworthy due to his close association with Ben Affleck. Kevin Smith’s friendship with Ben Affleck has been a prominent part of his career. The two have worked together on numerous projects, including Chasing Amy and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back
Fans are now taking sides, with some supporting Smith’s comments, and others disagreeing with him. Keep reading to know everything we need to know about his comment and its connection to Ben Affleck.
Kevin Smith’s Comment On the Current State Of DCU And James Gunn
Kevin Smith, on his podcast Fatman Beyond, Smith had a conversation with his co-host Mark Bernardin about James Gunn, where he praised James Gunn for his accountability. He praised James Gunn’s attitude towards taking responsibility and had good things to say about James Gunn’s handling of the DC Universe backlash.
Kevin Smith, has expressed his admiration for the director’s approach to interacting with the fan base of DC Comics. Smith acknowledged the extent of the backlash but emphasized his appreciation for Gunn’s hands-on method of addressing the concerns of DC fans. He further compared this approach favorably to the perceived lack of communication from Marvel with its audience.
“I like how James is just being his own publicist for the entire DC/Warner Bros. division. Whatever it is. Like, it’s smart. Everyone should be as accountable as he is. I know a lot of people are like, ‘Ah, I don’t like what he’s doing!’ But, at least he’s answering questions. He’s not hiding. And he’s not being sh**** about it… He’s like, ‘Look, we’re doing a thing. And we’re sorry if that hurts some people’s feelings.’ I respect that he’s answering questions. He doesn’t have to. How often does anybody over at Marvel go ‘Alright, let’s address the fans’ concerns!’ It doesn’t really happen.”
How Fans Are Reacting To the Comment
Mr. James Gunn’s efforts to personally interact with fans through social media is commendable, however, it is important to note that there is a distinction between engaging with fans and truly taking their thoughts and concerns into account. Some Fans are pointing out and even mocking James Gunn for deleting his tweet now and then.
Lol accountable. By deleting his tweets every few months? Hahahaha
— George Mirnic (@CthulhuGeorge) January 15, 2023
Some fans even called out Kevin Smith saying he praises anyone who’s in the top
He praises anyone who's in the top. Nothing new here.
— McJunegrand🔞 (@McJunegrand) January 16, 2023
On the other hand the comparison with Marvel lead fans to defend the franchise
marvel doesn't address fan concerns because kevin feige gives fans what they want. character cameos from popular fan casts, cross overs from franchises, bringing back actors of old roles. meanwhile james acts like he's shepherding some kingdom come grandios storytelling about (1)
— omNIGHpotent (@undrgrndkngz) January 16, 2023
Despite the backlash, there are also fans who support Smith’s comment. Although very few, some agree that James Gunn is being true to his vision and answering fans rather than making excuses
Yeah I mean if I give James credit for anything it’s being True to whatever vision he has, he doesn’t make excuses just does his own thing and he’s fine if you love him or hate him for it. I personally think he has a lot more hits than misses so I trust his work for the most
— Max Persellin (@MPersellin70) January 15, 2023
Kevin Smith’s Friendship with Ben Affleck
One of the key factors that has led to the backlash against Smith’s comment is his friendship with actor Ben Affleck. Affleck is well-known for his role as Batman in the Snyderverse, a series of films directed by Zack Snyder that was ultimately ended by James Gunn. As a result, some fans believe that Smith’s praise for Gunn is a betrayal of his friendship with Affleck and his support for the Snyderverse.
It’s worth mentioning that Smith himself was a big fan of Snyderverse, he even defended Snyder’s vision of the Justice League, and it’s a known fact that he is a huge fan of Ben Affleck’s Batman. So, it’s quite surprising for fans to see him giving credit to James Gunn who ended Snyder’s vision.
In summation, Kevin Smith’s commendation of James Gunn has caused a rift among enthusiasts. Although some regard it as a violation of his amity with Ben Affleck and his allegiance to the Snyderverse, others contend that he has the prerogative to express his own viewpoint. Ultimately, it is incumbent upon each devotee to determine their own stance regarding Smith’s statement
Source: Screen Rant
