Why 'Captain Marvel' Isn't as Bad as Some Would Have You Believe

Introduction

When it comes to the reign of superhero movies, some miss the mark, and some excite the crowd. 'Captain Marvel' was often criticized upon release, yet many disagreed. In this essay, we will explore why 'Captain Marvel' might not be as bad as some would claim and discuss the nuances of the film.

The Perception of 'Captain Marvel'

Many people labeled 'Captain Marvel' as a shallow, poorly executed film. However, this judgment is often based on preconceived notions of what a superhero movie should be, rather than a thorough examination of the film's merits.

Objective Reviews vs. Subjective Enjoyment

The argument often cited against 'Captain Marvel' is that the initial reviews were overwhelmingly negative. To some, this might seem like a death blow to the film. However, it is important to recognize that every movie will have detractors, and some films are enjoyed or criticized based on personal biases.

For instance, countless people enjoy films like Jaws sequels, Superman IV, Batman and Robin, or any Adam Sandler film despite their critical reception. These movies are not objectively bad, they merely aren't to everyone's taste. Similarly, 'Captain Marvel' can be enjoyed by those who don't fall in line with the general critical consensus.

The Role of Character and Fan Sentiment

One of the most heated debates surrounding 'Captain Marvel' involves its character, Carol Danvers, and the actress Brie Larson. Critics often complained about the promotional material which emphasized Carol's empowerment and her association with feminism. Some fans felt these elements were overblown and detracted from the core story.

"Carol lifting Thor's hammer? No way. Her being the strongest Avenger? Of course not. She is very strong but there is someone who is even stronger."

While these promotional points might not ring true to everyone, the film's overall narrative, which revolves around Carol's journey of self-discovery and manipulation, is intact. The movie focuses on Carol gaining control over her life and emotions, which encompasses her character development and empowerment.

Addressing Complaints About Character and Writing

Another common critique of 'Captain Marvel' is the writing, which some found to be over-stylized and forced. Specifically, the inclusion of certain characters and plot elements felt unnatural and cringeworthy to some viewers.

"There was just a smidge of CW superhero style writing in there that did feel forced and a bit cringey. I could have done without that."

While these elements might be true, it is also important to consider that all superhero movies often have their challenges in character interplay and plot development. The effectiveness of the narrative ultimately depends on the audience's perspective and expectations.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, 'Captain Marvel' is not a cinematic disaster, nor is it a universally acclaimed masterpiece. It falls somewhere in the middle, serving as a fairly decent Marvel film. As with any movie, there are aspects that might irk some viewers while others might find solace in its narrative and themes.

The real question is not whether 'Captain Marvel' is a bad movie, but whether it is a movie that resonates with you individually. Some, like the author, may find it more enjoyable than other Marvel films like Captain America: The Winter Soldier or Thor: The Dark World. Others may prefer the more character-driven plot of the former or the dark elements of the latter.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the critic's opinion of 'Captain Marvel' is just that—a personal opinion. If you can appreciate the film for what it is, and find it more compelling than its detractors suggest, then it is not a bad movie. When it comes to movies, each viewer's enjoyment is subjective and varies widely.