Tom Hanks, the beloved star known for roles in classics like Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan, has joined a growing chorus of actors and filmmakers critiquing the modern superhero movie landscape. During a recent appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz, Hanks shared his thoughts on the state of comic book movies, expressing a longing for the personal touch that once characterized the genre. While superhero films continue to dominate the box office, Hanks, like other prominent voices, wonders if the industry’s current trajectory is at odds with genuine storytelling.
Why Tom Hanks Is Losing Interest in Modern Superhero Cinema?
Tom Hanks. Image Credit: 20th Century Studios
The seasoned actor opened up on how comic book movies initially captivated audiences, himself included, by drawing out universal emotions and connecting viewers with characters who personified different aspects of the human experience. Reflecting on this golden age, he remarked, “There was a period of time, and I felt this way too, where we would see DC and MCU movies in order to see these better versions of ourselves.” Hanks’ appreciation for the genre was rooted in its ability to showcase relatable struggles, from Batman’s internal conflict to Captain America’s patriotic fervor. However, he believes that the personal, character-driven core has largely been sacrificed for over-the-top CGI and explosive visuals that prioritize profit over depth.
Hanks’s remarks add weight to the ongoing debate about the purpose and longevity of superhero films in mainstream cinema. Unlike other critics who might dismiss these movies outright, Hanks’ words seem steeped in disappointment rather than disdain. He observed that while fans were once eager to engage with complex character arcs, they are now often bombarded with visual spectacle at the expense of meaningful narrative.
“God, I feel like an X-Men sometime. I am as confused as Spider-Man. I am as angry as Batman is. I love my country as much as Captain America. We’ve been down that road. We’ve had 20 years to explore that kind of thing, and now we’re in an evolution and place where it’s: And the story is what? The theme is what? The point of this movie is what?” he said. For Hanks, the evolution of superhero films has moved into territory where it’s less about “who these characters are” and more about “what fantastical feat they’ll pull off next.”
This shift is not lost on audiences either, as recent box office results illustrate a mixed reception to superhero movies. Some, like Deadpool & Wolverine, found success by offering fresh takes, while others, such as Shazam: Fury of the Gods and The Flash, struggled to connect. Hanks’ insights point to a possible reason for this divide: viewers are starting to look beyond grand visual effects and are craving stories that resonate on a deeper level. “The industry often says if this works it will work again,” he explained, adding that audiences are well aware of the genre’s repetitive formula. In a line that struck a chord, he observed, “They see the familiar, and they say, ‘I’ve seen that already. What’s next?’”
The Role of CGI: There Should be Balance
Tom Hanks. Image Credit: Paramount Pictures
Hanks also delved into the role of CGI, suggesting that the technology, while groundbreaking, may be overshadowing narrative innovation. He humorously imagined a scenario where CGI could “dream Lake Michigan and fill it with cuckoo clocks that form a three-headed dragon that breathes fire and destroys Chicago.” Yet, he questioned, “To what purpose? What is the story and what is it going to be saying about us?” In Hanks’ view, CGI should serve to enhance storytelling rather than dictate it, emphasizing that a truly memorable film leaves a lasting impact because of its emotional resonance, not just its visual appeal.
When Horowitz asked Hanks if he had ever engaged in discussions with superhero powerhouses like Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige or DC Studios’ James Gunn, he revealed he hadn’t, remarking, “I’m not in their wheelhouse. I’m not against it, I guess, but at the same time…I’ve got a lot of stuff that I’m dreaming of and trying to make happen.” This response suggests that while Hanks may not oppose the genre, he’s content focusing on projects that prioritize narrative substance over spectacle.
Despite his criticism, Hanks’ remarks do not come across as dismissive of superhero films altogether. His nostalgia for earlier superhero movies implies that his critique stems from a place of appreciation for what the genre once represented. Like Martin Scorsese, whose controversial comments on superhero cinema stirred similar debates, Hanks seems to advocate for a cinematic future where superhero films balance visual effects with grounded storytelling.
Hanks’ reflections arrive at a time when the superhero genre faces a critical juncture. While the MCU has managed to maintain some momentum, introducing new storylines and exploring unique characters in series like The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Agatha All Along, it’s clear that audiences’ expectations are evolving. Venom, for instance, found initial success by offering an unconventional buddy comedy narrative. However, as the franchise progressed, fans began demanding more than just recycled themes and characters.
Social media has also intensified the debate, with internet users often quick to criticize any franchise that rises to prominence, sometimes merely for the sake of provocation. Yet, as Hanks’ comments reveal, there are moments when these critiques align with genuine industry concerns. The actor’s views reflect those of many fans who feel the genre has drifted from the elements that once made it impactful, trading relatable heroes for over-the-top, computer-generated battles.
Ultimately, Hanks’ insights suggest a desire for change. He advocates for films that connect with audiences beyond the initial spectacle, tapping into the same emotional depth that made him—and millions of others—fall in love with these characters in the first place. While the superhero genre isn’t vanishing anytime soon, Hanks’ words encourage filmmakers to remember that, at its best, cinema is an art form capable of both thrilling and inspiring its audience.
As Hanks and others continue to voice their concerns, the hope remains that studios will embrace this feedback, creating superhero stories that not only entertain but also resonate on a personal level. Whether or not this shift occurs, Hanks’ critique stands as a reminder of the impact a well-told story can have—and the enduring allure of characters who reflect our own strengths, weaknesses, and dreams.
