When it comes to one of Marvel’s upcoming endeavors, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, a lot of emotional connectivity is attached on the fans’ behalf, who believe the premise would be honoring its past legacy and providing a fruitful narrative to look forward to. However, some of the fan reception has not been too kind, with many quick-to-point faults at Tenoch Huerta’s portrayal of Namor.
From his physique to the statement of his character holding “deep admiration” for Black Panther, to the change in his Atlantan background, certain fans are not too elated with how the studio has decided to move forward with the renowned, iconic character.
Recently, award-winning Marvel Artist, Mike Deodato, Jr. took to Instagram and expressed his dissonance towards the character and his depiction.
Marvel Artist Expresses Distaste For Tenoch Huerta’s Namor
In an Instagram post, which has since been deleted, renowned Marvel artist Mike Deodato, Jr. compared his physique to that of Tenoch Huerta-depicted Namor. When it comes to the inclusion of Namor in the MCU, fans were rewarded with an official first look during this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. While most were welcoming, some were, as always, not too happy. The casting choice for the fan-favorite Sub-Mariner was not favored by an opinionated few.
When it comes to Deodato, who has professionally practiced his expertise as an artist since 1985, the Eisner award-winner has had a lot to contribute to the Marvel comics; he has been credited for his stupendous and amazing work in New Avengers, Amazing Spider-Man, Thunderbolts, Wolverine: Origins, etc.
Naturally, as someone who has first-hand experience in character depiction through his art, Deodato knew that something was amiss when it came to Namor’s casting choice.
In his deleted Instagram post, the penciler posted a comparison picture; on one side, was a shot of Namor’s appearance in the Wakanda Forever trailer, and on the other side, was a full-body image of Deodato. The Amazing Spider-Man artist wrote:
“Pencil lifting beats swimming anytime! You can tell somebody screwed things up when a character from a movie looks in worst shape than the 60 years old artist who drew him.”
This criticizing remark, however, has drawn negative traction, with numerous supporters voicing their disapproval of the artist, some accusing him of body-shaming. It’s no wonder the post is long gone, as such a piece of commentary comes off as quite disheartening.
Marvel Fans’ Reaction To The Remark
The Marvel fans took to Twitter to express their disapproval of such an obscure, unnecessary remark. Many people, as opposed to the ones who did not hesitate to subject Tenoch Huerta’s depiction of Namor to intense scrutiny, had always reinstated their excitement to see the Sub-Mariner in the upcoming film. Many fans have since defended the changes in his iteration as they are intriguing and something new to look forward to. Naturally, to them, such a comment is bound to trigger disapprobation.
They had the following to say:
Mike Deodato Jr. really shouldn't invite looks comparisons ESPECIALLY with Namor. That's all I'm going to say.
— Brown Butter Evangelist (@krysilove) August 30, 2022
@mikedeodato really thought he did something 😭😭 how sad https://t.co/aqbqWZm52A
— so fkn sci fi ۞ (@fentyprozac) August 30, 2022
strange mike deodato post. carry on..
— pat.miniutti (@MidnightPencils) August 30, 2022
Namor looks 100x better in the movie then you ever have
— Braxton Hobbs (@braxton_hobbs) August 30, 2022
While the audience is entitled to their opinions, insinuating that Tenoch Huerta is in a bad shape comes off as rather dispiriting. It is also too early to judge an entire character’s portrayal, as nothing of much substance can be discerned from a few frames in a trailer. Further debates may ensue over the casting choice. However, it is important to not engage in disparaging, hurtful actions, and comments – from either side of the argument.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to hit the theatres on November 11, 2022.
Source: Instagram
