As you probably know, superhero movies are all the rage these days, and while each adventure is meant to be taken on its own, there are inevitably comparisons between the two heavy hitters in this realm: DC and Marvel. Both companies have their own diehard fans, and though there are a lot of folks who enjoy offerings from both, the comparisons between how each franchise is doing persist. The rivalry has gotten worse now that DC and Marvel both have cinematic universes unfolding, but Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice director Zack Snyder isn’t bothered by this.
While Zack Snyder understands the inevitability of comparing the films that DC and Marvel are churning out, he explained to The Hollywood Reporter that to the average moviegoer, these comparisons aren’t an issue. He said:
You have these two giant comic book powers, and it would make sense that they would in some ways be compared to each other. It's like comparing Downton Abbey and Mr. Selfridge. Like Star Wars and Star Trek. Those are things that you could compare, but no one ever does. Those [DC versus Marvel] conversations are fun for the Internet. But in truth, it represents such a small group of people who are actually versed in the difference between DC and Marvel. The average moviegoer doesn’t know. Like my dad would be, "Is Spider-Man ever going to be in any of your films?"
Zack Snyder is right in terms of how the public looks at superhero movies. Many viewers are just looking for good popcorn entertainment to enjoy for two or three hours, and the intricacies are lost on many. I can recall several times where I’ve had to explain to friends why the X-Men can’t appear alongside the Avengers in the movies. To the fans, however, the arguments about which company is better has been a driving force for decades, whether it’s with the original printed stories or adaptations in other media. Movies were never going to be the exception.
Marvel and DC have been making films for years, so these arguments are nothing new. However, he latest round of comparisons have been targeted toward how their respective cinematic universes are progressing. Because Marvel began their shared world in 2008 and is now entering its "Phase Three," it’s had more time to develop and evolve compared to DC, which is only getting the ball rolling on theirs this year following 2013’s Man of Steel. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is introducing not only Batman and Wonder Woman alongside Superman, but Aquaman, The Flash, and Cyborg as well, setting up both Justice League movies and solo features. So, in a couple years, then the debates will be on a more-or-less level playing field, but for now, it seems DC and Marvel fans will keep sniping away at each other no matter what.
The latest round of comparisons between DC and Marvel have been primarily targeted towards their next releases: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, arriving on March 25, and Captain America: Civil War, hitting theaters on May 6. Make sure to let us know how you’re feeling about both entries in the comments below!
