Key Takeaways:
– Steven Spielberg’s 1984 film ‘Gremlins’ played a significant role in shaping the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
– The film led to the creation of the PG-13 viewer rating, used extensively in MCU projects.
– Gremlins’ blending of genres and balance of dark themes with humor influenced the storyline approach of various MCU films.
– The movie’s unique cinematic identity influenced the diversity seen in Marvel’s styles, tones, and narratives.
Establishing the Spielberg Connection:
Renowned director Steven Spielberg is famous for his vast contribution to the world of cinema. The iconic filmmaker not only swept audiences off their feet with his innovative approach but also inspired many future films, including those in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). His 1984 horror comedy ‘Gremlins,’ with a whopping budget of $212 million, was one such production that unknowingly paved the way for a new age of superhero movies.
How Spielberg’s Gremlins Molded the MCU:
Spielberg’s movie ‘Gremlins’ may seem unrelated to the action-packed superhero narratives of the MCU. While the former is a horror comedy filled with violent scenes, most MCU films offer a safer, family-friendly spectrum of violence (with a few exceptions such as Deadpool). The connection lies in the introduction of a movie rating, which forever changed how MCU films would be created and received.
A New Dawn – The Birth of PG-13 Rating:
Back in the day, films were only classified under G, PG, R, or X ratings. However, Spielberg’s ‘Gremlins’ and ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark,’ marked a turning point. Despite their graphic content, charm, and comedy, they fell short of receiving an R rating, which Spielberg thought incorrectly represented these films to younger viewers. In a landmark decision, Spielberg reached out to the then president of the Motion Pictures Association (MPA), proposing a new category – PG-13 – to give a fairer representation of such movies. This new rating enabled superhero films, especially Marvel movies, to reach a wider audience by presenting controlled amounts of violence suitable for younger audiences under parental guidance.
Influencing Marvel Beyond Ratings:
The influence of Gremlins on MCU extends beyond the realm of ratings. The Spielberg-directed film blended several movie genres, balancing dark themes with lighter comedic elements, something that Marvel films regularly feed upon. The ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, for instance, successfully juggle action, violence, and humor.
Furthermore, Spielberg’s use of innovative plotlines and the creation of a unique cinematic identity in ‘Gremlins’ mirrors in Marvel’s diversified storytelling approach. The diversity of styles, tones, and narratives in the MCU projects highlight Spielberg’s indirect contribution to setting the tone for the successful franchise.
Revisiting the Marvel and Spielberg Marvel:
Marvel’s success story and Spielberg’s iconic influence on the industry prove how tremendously Spielberg marked his territory in the entertainment sector. His ideas, especially visible in Gremlins, have shaped not only the future of the genre but also affected how filmmakers approach combining and balancing diverse themes. Fans can watch Spielberg’s masterpieces ‘Gremlins’ and ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ on Prime Video, while most Marvel projects are accessible on Disney+.
In conclusion, it’s fascinating that a classic horror comedy paved the way for the superhero mania we see today in Hollywood. There’s no denying that Steven Spielberg’s brilliance has left an impact that transcends his filmography, ensuring his place in cinema history. His work continues to influence contemporary cinema, leaving audiences excited for what the future of film holds.
