Martin Scorsese with his filmography and distinct way of making a film has earned name, fame, and respect from everyone. He has transformed himself into an organization. And there should not be any doubt and Tim Blake Nelson also knows it. But there is one particular aspect where Nelson could not go align with the acclaimed filmmaker, no matter what.
Tim Blake Nelson Responds to Martin Scorsese’s MCU Critique
Time Blake Nelson. Image Credit: Universal Pictures/ Touchstone Pictures
In a recent interview with Variety, Tim Blake Nelson shared his enthusiasm for returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the upcoming film Captain America: Brave New World. Nelson is set to reprise his role as Dr. Samuel Sterns, a character he originally portrayed in The Incredible Hulk. His return comes at a crucial time for Marvel Studios, which has faced increasing scrutiny regarding its sustained influence in Hollywood.
Despite a few recent box office setbacks and mixed critical receptions, Marvel has managed to regain momentum with the success of Deadpool and Wolverine, which is currently performing exceptionally well at the box office and crossed the $1 billion mark at the global market in just 18 days.
Nelson expressed that this resurgence did not come as a shock to him, as he considers Marvel’s accomplishments in the film industry to be unparalleled. He remarked, “Marvel is an unheard-of phenomenon in movie history. Kevin Feige and his studio created dozens of connected movies that exist in one cinematic universe, to use their term. There’s no comparable achievement. So no – I don’t think it’s over.“
The actor also touched upon the never-ending debate about the artistic value of Marvel films, referencing Martin Scorsese’s earlier remarks where the legendary director questioned whether Marvel movies could be considered true cinema.
While Nelson holds Martin Scorsese in the highest regard, he respectfully disagreed with the filmmaker’s assessment. Nelson commented, “I couldn’t respect Martin Scorsese more, he’s his own genre, but I disagree with him when he derides Marvel.” He elaborated on his perspective, stating that Marvel movies indeed qualify as cinema, although they cater to a different kind of audience experience. The films are designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder, often transporting viewers back to their childhoods.
Although Nelson acknowledged that Marvel movies are not as profound as cinematic masterpieces like Goodfellas or Schindler’s List, he emphasized that they do not aspire to be. Instead, they are crafted to entertain, with a unique artistry that is embedded in the world of superheroes and larger-than-life storytelling.
Is the Marvel Cinematic Universe Cinema? A Heated Debate
Tim Blake Nelson. Image Credit: Marvel Entertainment
All these controversies or in other words “debate” started in 2019 when legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese made a statement that triggered many, particularly concerning the MCU. His comment, which quickly spread across social media and became a point of contention, questioned the very nature of the MCU’s contribution to the world of cinema. Scorsese famously remarked, “I don’t see them. I tried, you know? But that’s not cinema,” a statement that continues to echo in discussions about the value and definition of modern film.
This comment by Scorsese was met with significant backlash from prominent figures within the Marvel universe. Among those who voiced their opposition were James Gunn, Samuel L. Jackson, and Kevin Feige, all of whom defended the MCU’s standing in the film industry. Recently, Nelson added his perspective to this ongoing debate, disagreeing with Scorsese’s viewpoint.
Nelson didn’t merely contest Scorsese’s criticism; he also highlighted the unparalleled accomplishments of the MCU. He emphasized that “Marvel is an unheard-of phenomenon in movie history,” acknowledging the extraordinary feat accomplished by Kevin Feige and his studio in creating a cohesive cinematic universe. Nelson further asserted that this achievement stands unrivaled in the history of filmmaking, concluding, “So no, I don’t think it’s over.“
As anticipation builds for the release of Captain America: Brave New World, Nelson’s defense of the MCU underscores the franchise’s enduring quality and widespread appeal. The recent success of Deadpool & Wolverine also reinforced the notion that superhero films still have a substantial audience, particularly when the stories resonate with viewers.
Captain America: Brave New World is set to be a significant installment in the MCU, marking the official rise of Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson as the new Captain America. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Nelson, Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, Shira Haas, Harrison Ford, Xosha Roquemore, Liv Tyler, Rosa Salazar, and Giancarlo Esposito. Directed by Julius Onah, with a script penned by Malcolm Spellman, Dalan Musson, and Matthew Orton, the film promises to deliver a powerful narrative that continues the legacy of the Captain America storyline.
Fans of the MCU can look forward to Captain America: Brave New World, which is scheduled to hit theaters on February 14, 2025.
