It’s the championship battle of the century. In one corner, fresh off The Irishman starring Robert De Niro, it’s legendary director Martin Scorsese. And in this corner, Marvel Cinematic Universe mastermind Kevin Feige. Let’s get ready to rumble! Scorsese has already kicked open the library doors, reading Marvel *ahem* “films†for filth in Empire magazine. “Honestly, the closest I can think of them, as well made as they are, with actors doing the best they can under the circumstances, is theme parks,†he said, clouds pouring darkness over Marvel Studios. He’s not too far off, what with Avengers Campus coming to Disney’s California Adventure Park in 2020. “It isn’t the cinema of human beings trying to convey emotional, psychological experiences to another human being,†the director of The Irishman added, claiming he’s tried to watch Marvel movies, “but that’s not cinema.†Before you get your Spider-Man undies in a twist, just remember: Martin Scorsese is 76, prefers Mob movies, and does not affect your life in any way. Go watch the small boy sling webs, if that’s what you like. Unless you’re Kevin Feige, in which case I would get your publicist on the phone right now … you have a lot to say about The Irishman, don’t you?
Update, October 5: In a totally unexpected and shocking development [sarcasm voices lessens], a few directors have voiced their annoyance on social media about Scorsese’s comments. James Gunn, who directed Guardians of the Galaxy, was particularly disappointed with the Marvel bashing. “Martin Scorsese is one of my 5 favorite living filmmakers. I was outraged when people picketed The Last Temptation of Christ without having seen the film. I’m saddened that he’s now judging my films in the same way,†he wrote. “That said, I will always love Scorsese, be grateful for his contribution to cinema, and can’t wait to see The Irishman.â€
Joss Whedon and Doctor Strange screenwriter C. Robert Cargill also tried to understand Scorsese’s point of view, but …
Marty, baby! Look what you’ve started!