| Description |
Films in Marvel's Cinematic Universe (MCU) have a knack for representing Latinxs-in green face, blue face, even tree face. MCU characters' lack of recognizability as Latinx is problematic considering the wide-reach of MCU films and the already prevalent underrepresentation of Latinxs on the silver screen. Approaching MCU films through a critical race perspective, this paper analyzes Latinx characters in Ant-Man (2015) and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) to ascertain what marks them as Latinx and whether the development of their Latin-ness regurgitates or frustrates existing stereotypes. When Latinxs are purposefully represented as Latinxs, their Latin-ness often succumbs to Hollywood stereotypes that serve to strengthen the superiority of White, hetero males. Rare moments when their Latin-ness diverges from stereotype are swallowed up in narratives that have them reverting to and supporting the status quo, i.e., returning to their stereotypical and subservient behavior-stunting their character growth-or giving up Othering aspects of their Latin-ness to assimilate. This paper adds to the scant research of Latinxs in Marvel or superhero comic book films. It invites further research on (the why behind) Marvel's representation of diversity and its implications on real world, sociopolitical issues. |
