The Marvel Cinematic Universe is currently facing some challenges. Over the recent years, the franchise has encountered difficulties in gaining praise from both critics and fans, with several productions receiving unfavorable ratings on platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes. A significant problem was the disconnected feel following Avengers: Endgame, as Marvel Studios capitalized on the surge of streaming services by producing TV shows for Disney+. Shows like Loki and WandaVision started off well, but the positive reception didn’t persist indefinitely. Fortunately, Kevin Feige and his team acknowledged that they had spread themselves too thin and returned to prioritizing quality over quantity once more.
With a relatively small number of trials in place, it’s clear that the new strategy for the MCU is showing promise. This is evident from the positive reception of films like Thunderbolts* and The Fantastic Four: First Steps in 2025, which were widely acclaimed for their compelling narratives and ambitious storytelling. However, even as Marvel Studios continues to build goodwill, a fresh challenge has surfaced that requires immediate attention. This issue is not likely to resolve itself quickly.
*Please note: “Thunderbolts” is a fictional team in the Marvel Universe, so it’s assumed readers will understand this reference. If necessary, you can replace “Thunderbolts” with “the upcoming Thunderbolts movie.” Similarly, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” can be replaced with “the upcoming Fantastic Four film.
The MCU Isn’t Focused on the Right Audience
In the year 2025, I found myself admiring Marvel Studios’ decision to play it relatively safe with the release of “Captain America: Brave New World.” Having previously showcased great success with movies featuring Captain America, and with Chris Evans no longer in the role, Anthony Mackie was ready for his time to shine. The addition of Harrison Ford only added to the film’s already impressive star power. However, despite high expectations, “Brave New World” didn’t resonate as deeply as anticipated with audiences, and there wasn’t a massive influx of viewers flocking to theaters. By the conclusion of its cinematic run, it had grossed slightly over $400 million, an impressive figure for most films but not for one within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Initially, Thunderbolts*, with its secondary Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) cast, was anticipated to have minimal impact due to low expectations. However, it surprised critics with rave reviews. The challenge lay in attracting audiences, despite positive word of mouth. Regrettably, the box office earnings for Thunderbolts* fell short of even those for Brave New World. Although one could attribute this underperformance to MCU exhaustion, there might be an unforeseen element that Marvel Studios had not anticipated impacting both movies’ performance.
The marketing for Thunderbolts and Brave New World made it clear they’d have mature themes unsuitable for children, possibly deterring parents from bringing their kids or attending the movies altogether. Conversely, Fantastic Four: First Steps promised something for all audiences, yet many may have abandoned the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) by then. The movie’s failure to meet box office expectations is evident, despite positive reviews and a generally family-friendly atmosphere. Some attribute this to its complex themes on birth and parenthood or the heavy sci-fi elements in the reboot, while the DC Universe flourishes due to catering to its core audience.
Superman‘s Light Tone Is a Breath of Fresh Air
Thunderbolts receives more positive reviews than Superman, and First Steps is holding its own against the Man of Steel. Nevertheless, James Gunn’s latest film has no issues creating a stir at the box office, as it consistently breaks records and reaches heights that the DC Extended Universe (DCU) has struggled to achieve. Unlike its competitors, Superman offers a family-friendly approach, although there are mature undertones in the movie. However, these mature elements can be easily overlooked by children due to the charming canine that accompanies the man wearing the bright-colored suit. In 2026, Supergirl is expected to adopt a similar tone, and while it will be challenging for the DCU to replicate the same success, it’s difficult not to back the new franchise at this point.
Thunderbolts has better reviews than Superman, but First Steps keeps up. However, James Gunn’s newest movie is a hit and breaks records. Unlike other movies, Superman focuses on families with kids while having some mature themes that kids can ignore thanks to an adorable dog. In 2026, Supergirl aims for a similar tone, but it will be tough for the DCU to match the success, although the new franchise seems promising.
New Dawn,” is expected to do well, but its inclusion of the Punisher, a character known for his lethal actions, might not be beneficial due to concerns about violence. Similarly, “Avengers: Apocalypse” will likely include heavy themes of death and sadness, which may further concern parents. Until the MCU understands that appealing to younger audiences is crucial for future success, they’ll keep trying to force elements that don’t fit perfectly into their stories. Let’s hope for more Young Avengers in the near future!
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2025-08-15 21:42