Did Marvel Ever Copy DC Movies?

Movies based on comic book universes have become incredibly popular, with both Marvel and DC producing a plethora of films that sometimes draw comparisons. One of the more notable mentions is the similarity between Eternals and some DC films, sparking curiosity about whether Marvel has ever directly copied elements from DC's cinematic works. Although Marvel and DC are known for their own unique storytelling, let's explore the extent of their collaboration and similarities in movies based on their respective comic book universes.

Marvel's Adaptations of Their Own Work

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has primarily focused on adapting stories and characters from their own vast comic book catalogue. However, there have been instances where Marvel has drawn inspiration from similar narrative structures and character arcs, albeit not direct copies. Here are a few examples:

Infinity War and Endgame

The Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, while monumental blockbusters, were deeply influenced by the storyline from 1991's Thanos Quest and Infinity Gauntlet. This storyline depicted Thanos seeking to fulfill his plan of obtaining all six Infinity Stones and imposing a new order on the universe. Similarities in the narrative structure and plot elements can be observed, despite the earlier work being published as a comic book five decades ago.

Winter Soldier and Captain America: Winter Soldier

Another example of Marvel drawing from their own storied past is seen in Captain America: Winter Soldier. This film heavily references the classic Secret Winter storyline. While the characters and events are rendered in a modern, cinematic format, the essence of the original plot remains preserved. The narrative structure and the storyline's impact on fans were also mirrored in the movie.

The Controversy Surrounding Eternals and DC Films

The most talked-about instance of potential copying involves Marvel's Eternals and DC's V. While the involvement of V as a character is more indirect, it has been suggested by some that the concept of a group of immortal beings co-existing with humans is strikingly similar. However, it is crucial to note that the timelines and contexts of these works are distinct. V operates in a parallel universe and is a different entity than the Eternals. The similarities in concept alone do not constitute a direct copy, but rather a shared narrative theme.

Moving Beyond Single Character Inspirations

It is worth exploring whether other DC films have influenced Marvel similarly. While there are occasional parallels in shared canonical characters or character designs, direct copying on a significant scale is rare. The focus of each universe remains distinct, with Marvel and DC building their own unique legacies. For example, while both Justice League and The Avengers deal with team-based heroism, the team compositions, story arcs, and visual styles are fundamentally different.

Conclusion

While there are instances of Marvel drawing from its own rich history and taking inspiration from comic book concepts, direct copying of DC storyline elements in Marvel films is not a common practice. The distinct nature of each universe, with its unique continuity and narrative scope, ensures that the influence is often more thematic than direct. Marvel films are known for their intricate storytelling and character arcs, which are tailored to the modern cinematic experience rather than simply replicating previous works. The fundamental difference lies in the execution, narrative depth, and the unique world-building that sets each universe apart.