The latest MCU film starring the superhero trio of Captain Marvel, Monica Rambeau, and Ms. Marvel experienced a lackluster start at the box office, recording the lowest opening weekend in the franchise. Including many aspects of the film, criticism has now also been directed at the movie’s antagonist, Zawe Ashton’ Dar-Benn, a Kree warrior trying to restore her homeland.
However, her likeness to Ronan the Accuser from Guardians of the Galaxy, among many other things, has sparked an online debate among fans, with many criticizing the character for the same.
Zawe Ashton’s The Marvels Character Panned Amidst MCU Debut
Making her MCU debut with The Marvels, Zawe Ashton has become one of the focal points of the movie’s criticism. The actress portrays the role of Dar-Benn, a Kree warrior who is trying to restore her home after Carol Danvers destroyed the Supreme Intelligence.
However, several aspects, including her likeness to Ronan the Accuser, have resulted in mass insults for Ashton’s character. Fans took to Twitter to share the same, as one user said, “She wants to be Ronan so bad.” The criticism doesn’t end here as others argued that she could be the “Worst MCU Villain” so far.
Shes just there
— Bobby (@BjornLodbrok_) November 15, 2023
She wants to be Ronan so bad 😭 pic.twitter.com/8HmSZrVeoU
— Mando (Spider-Man Era) (@TheMando178) November 15, 2023
I watched The Marvels last night. I didn’t think it was that bad. The editing was a little weird, the villain was kinda lame, (no disrespect to Zawe Ashton) but I did like Brie, Teyonah and Iman together. I thought their scenes were fun with the switching. I laughed a few times. pic.twitter.com/7pCqiwvjut
— Adam Chaney (@TheAdamChaney) November 11, 2023
Zawe Ashton has a thankless job playing undercooked villain Dar-Benn in THE MARVELS but she did a great job given the limited opportunities the script provided. pic.twitter.com/lmpfrxtTDm
— David Walton (@BenReilly149) November 13, 2023
#TheMarvels was a fun time! I went in with middle level expectations. I enjoyed a good chunk of it. A few scenes fell short and the villain fell flat, tho well done by Zawe Ashton with what she had. The trio had great chemistry. Kamala/Iman STOLE every scene. She is the future!!! pic.twitter.com/swVKQtr4y2
— Nat🍂🍁 (@nattheawknerd) November 10, 2023
The villain, as seems to be par of the course with Marvel mostly, was really disappointing & just incredibly bland which seemed such a shame of Zawe Ashton’s talents. Took a lot of listening to understand what her motive was.
— Elliott Thompson (@Ell_Thompson) November 11, 2023
Fans also pointed out how having such a bland character has been a waste of having a talented actress like Zawe Ashton, as they praised her performance, noting that her commendable performance couldn’t compensate for the lack of depth in her character.
Read More: “This is a game changer”: Return of a Powerful MCU Villain Confirmed in Brie Larson’s The Marvels
Zawe Ashton’s The Marvels Villain Does Not Resonate With the Audience
Starring Brie Larson, Iman Vellani, and Teyonah Parris, The Marvels premiered in theaters last week to a disappointing box office reception. Along with its lackluster box office performance, the movie has also received criticism for several aspects.
Critics stated that the sequel did not live up to expectations. One notable point of criticism has been the movie’s villain Dar-Benn, portrayed by Zawe Ashton. Many stated that the character was quite weak to be the lead antagonist of the film.
Despite her pivotal role in seeking revenge and wanting to restore her homeland following Captain Marvel’s attack on the Kree Supreme Intelligence AI, the movie barely delves into Dar-Benn’s struggles or backstory. The criticism extends to the abrupt character arc is also stated to be the reason for the criticism surrounding the character.
From a revenge-driven Kree warrior attempting to revive Hala, she undergoes a sudden transformation, leading to her self-destruction at the movie’s conclusion. The quick shift and a potential end to her story, leave room for the audience to establish a deeper connection with Dar-Benn.
The Marvels is playing in theatres.
