Why did Marvel get so bad? This question has been circulating among comic book fans and critics alike in recent years. As one of the most iconic and influential comic book publishers, Marvel has faced a barrage of criticism for what many perceive as a decline in quality and storytelling. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this decline and analyze the factors that have contributed to Marvel’s current state of affairs.
One of the primary reasons for Marvel’s decline in quality is the excessive use of crossovers and event series. While these series were initially popular for bringing together fan-favorite characters, they have become a crutch for Marvel writers and editors. The repetitive nature of these events has led to a lack of originality and depth in the storytelling, as characters are often forced into situations that don’t align with their established personalities and motivations.
Another factor contributing to Marvel’s decline is the increasing reliance on movies and television shows. As Marvel’s cinematic universe continues to expand, the comic book series have become more and more derivative of their big-screen counterparts. This has resulted in a loss of originality and a focus on spectacle over character development. Additionally, the crossover between the movies and the comics has created a disjointed narrative that leaves readers feeling disconnected from the story.
Furthermore, Marvel’s editorial decisions have also played a role in the publisher’s decline. In recent years, Marvel has been criticized for its “House of Ideas” initiative, which aimed to streamline the creative process and make it more efficient. While this may have worked in some instances, it has also led to a lack of diversity in storytelling and a tendency to recycle old ideas. The lack of fresh voices and perspectives has left readers feeling as though they are reading the same stories over and over again.
Lastly, the pressure to keep up with the competition has also taken a toll on Marvel. As DC Comics has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of storytelling, Marvel has found itself struggling to keep up. This has led to a series of half-hearted attempts to replicate DC’s successes, rather than focusing on what makes Marvel unique. The result is a collection of disjointed and unoriginal stories that have left fans feeling unfulfilled.
In conclusion, Marvel’s decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the excessive use of crossovers, the influence of movies and television, editorial decisions, and the pressure to compete with DC. While Marvel has had its share of successes, it is clear that the publisher needs to take a step back and focus on what made it great in the first place: original, character-driven storytelling. Only then can Marvel reclaim its place as the gold standard in the comic book industry.
