Non-Action Superhero Classics: A Comparative Analysis of 'Unbreakable' and 'Fantastic Beasts'

The modern superhero film era began with the mid-2000s blockbusters like X-Men (2000) and Spider-Man (2002), which kick-started a trend of highly cinematic, action-packed stories. However, amidst the action superhero films, there were a few unique outliers that dared to challenge the norm with less emphasis on physical combat. Two such standout films are Unbreakable (2000) and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016), which, while not fitting the traditional superhero action genre, still portray heroes in a purely heroic capacity. Let’s explore why these films stand out in their own right.

Unbreakable: A Groundbreaking Genre Bending Epic

Released in 2000, Unbreakable was a groundbreaking film that strayed away from the conventional blockbuster formula. Unlike other superhero movies that were heavily reliant on action sequences, Unbreakable is almost action-free. Director M. Night Shyamalan aimed to explore the superhero concept through a deeply introspective narrative, focusing on the human aspects of heroism and the psychological underpinnings of being a paragon.

Unbreakable was a reaction to the superhero film boom of the late 90s and early 2000s. At a time when the market was saturated with films heavily reliant on action and spectacle, Shyamalan wanted to create something different. He pointed out: "I remember seeing X-Men and Spider-Man, and it just seemed like the superhero movie was becoming this 3D thing, where everything was loud and bright and fast. But I'd seen Unbreakable and it was quite the opposite. It was quiet and grounded, and it didn't feel like a superhero movie in the traditional sense."

The film focuses on David Campos, a non-super-powered individual who discovers his ability to be unbreakable, and the mysterious emergence of a man with extraordinary abilities. Shyamalan’s film is more about the human condition, the psychology of heroism, and the impact of extraordinary abilities on ordinary lives. The lack of overt action does not diminish the film’s impact; instead, it amplifies the subtle drama and character development. As one critic noted, “Shyamalan’s narrative deconstructs the superhero mythos in a way that had never been done before and probably won’t be done again.”

Fantastic Beasts: A Magical and Minimal Action Film

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the 2016 film from J.K. Rowling and director David Yates, captures a similar ambiance to Unbreakable, albeit in a different genre. While it is not a traditional superhero film, Fantastic Beasts features a hero (Newt Scamander) who operates in a world filled with magical creatures and dark threats, much like a superhero. However, the film is remarkably light on action scenes, instead focusing on Newt’s character development and the unfolding mystery of the magical world.

J.K. Rowling’s creation is rooted in the magical universe of Harry Potter, yet the film itself avoids the action-heavy echoes of those earlier movies. Instead, it is a character-driven narrative, much like Unbreakable, that delves into the psyche and ethics of its protagonist. The lack of back-to-back action scenes allows the film to immerse the audience in the magical world, creating a unique and enchanting experience.

Conclusion: Heroes in Everyday Clothes

Both Unbreakable and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them are testament to the fact that superhero stories do not need to be defined by their action scenes to be compelling and transformative. These films showcase the power of quieter, more introspective storytelling to convey the essence of heroism. In an era dominated by blockbuster action films, these movies serve as refreshing reminders of the richness that can be found in character development, psychological depth, and nuanced storytelling. They prove that heroes don’t always wear capes and armor; they can be ordinary humans with extraordinary abilities or extraordinary humans in less-than-extraordinary circumstances.

With their unique approaches to storytelling, these films stand out as significant contributions to the genre, offering a fresh perspective that complements the modern superhero film trend. They continue to inspire and challenge filmmakers to explore different dimensions of the superhero concept, proving that greatness can often be found in the unexpected and the understated.