The Marvel Cinematic Universe, or MCU for short, is one of the most popular film franchises in history. Now, that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. While there are undoubtedly some great moments throughout the franchise, there are also a ton of problematic ones. The MCU has had a consistent impact on pop culture since its inception in 2008. From increasing Marvel’s visibility to increasing viewers’ familiarity with the source material, the MCU has boundless potential as well. But is that potential being realized right now? The MCU has consistently been a force in Hollywood over the last decade and a half, and it has only gotten more powerful since its inception. In fact, many people have argued that it is just getting started. With its publication of comic books in 1939 and television show taking off in 1949, it was clear from the start that The Marvel Cinematic Universe was destined to be a thing of beauty – if not an art form itself. Since then however, The Marvel Cinematic Universe has had an indelible effect on modern society as well.
The MCU and Pop Culture Lovers
The Marvel Cinematic Universe advertises itself as a place for “the pop culture lover” to explore their interests. Many of the films in the MCU feature characters that are obsessed with pop culture to one degree or another, and the films often make references to pop culture icons. Furthermore, the films often include references to pop culture icons that are in the background of the story, but constantly on the minds of the characters. It is easy to imagine that the MCU’s constant references to pop culture icons would have a direct effect on its target demographic. Whether it is increasing familiarity with the icons or simply making them more attractive, increased exposure to pop culture would have a positive effect on the population’s general cultural attitude.
The MCU and Fans of Superheroes
Superheroes are one of the most well-known genres in modern American pop culture. Many people have become enthralled with the superhero genre in recent years, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe has capitalized on this trend. The MCU has created a large superhero population, and the films often include references to superheroes in the background. In fact, the characters often have a ton of pop culture knowledge regarding superheroes, and the films frequently incorporate this knowledge into the story. It is important to note that the superhero population in the MCU isn’t just comprised of famous superheroes. Many of the characters within the MCU are original creations, and the films often focus on the character’s backstory, explaining how the characters got their powers. This is quite common in superhero lore, and the MCU makes this part of the story as well.
The MCU and Anime Fans
There is an obvious overlap between anime fans and superhero fans. The superhero genre has spread to many forms of media, including television shows, television movies, and live action films. However, the superhero genre is commonly associated with anime, which is a Japanese style of animation. The MCU has capitalized on the trend of connecting with anime fans by creating many original characters in the MCU that are reminiscent of anime tropes. For example, many of the heroes in the MCU are young people with extraordinary abilities, something that is common in anime. Furthermore, many of the heroes in the MCU have a deep connection to the mystical and supernatural, another common anime trait.
The MCU and Fanboys/Fangirls
Both superhero fans and anime fans have developed a devoted fanbase that is known as “fanboys” and “fangirls.” The term “fanboy” is often associated with a man, who is typically heterosexual and in their late teens or early twenties. The term “fangirl” is typically associated with a woman in her late teens or early twenties. Both fanboys and fangirls are particularly interested in the superhero genre, and both are known for being particularly passionate about their specific interests. The MCU has successfully capitalized on the “fanboy” and “fangirl” trends by creating many original characters in the MCU that are reminiscent of fanboy tropes, such as Tony Stark’s alter-ego, “Iron Man,” and Peter Parker’s, “Spider-Man.” Furthermore, the MCU often includes images of the fans during the film, making the fans feel like a part of the film themselves.
The MCU and Gaming Community
The MCU has had a consistent impact on the gaming community as well. Many of the heroes in the MCU are gamers, such as Peter Parker, Tony Stark, and Bruce Banner. In fact, many of the characters that are gamers fall into the age bracket of 25 to 35. This is a common demographic among gamers, and the MCU has capitalized on this trend. Additionally, the MCU has had a significant impact on the digital gaming community. Since the films tend to be quite cinematic, digital gamers have been known to re-watch the films to learn more about game development techniques. Furthermore, many digital gamers have found a new appreciation for the cinematic form of entertainment after learning more about film production techniques.
Conclusion
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has had an indelible impact on modern culture, and it can be seen in many forms of pop culture. From increasing the visibility of comic books to increasing the familiarity with the source material, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has boundless potential for impacting modern culture. On top of that, the MCU has been particularly influential in many forms of pop culture, from increasing the visibility of superheroes to creating original characters reminiscent of anime tropes. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is an impactful franchise, and it is important for pop culture enthusiasts to keep an eye on it.
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