Takeaways:
- DCU provides actors with complete scripts and clear character arcs from the start.
- Marvel Studios is known for secrecy and last-minute changes, leaving actors uncertain.
- Frank Grillo finds his DC role as Rick Flag Sr. far more fulfilling than his limited Marvel role as Crossbones.
- James Gunn’s DC Universe builds unique standalone stories within a larger connected world.
Marvel vs. DC: Frank Grillo’s Honest Perspective
Frank Grillo, who once portrayed Crossbones in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is now stepping into a much larger role in the DC Universe (DCU). His candid comparison between the two powerhouse studios offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Hollywood’s biggest franchises treat their actors.
Scripts and Production Style
One of the biggest differences Grillo highlights is the approach to scripts:
- DCU: Actors receive the full script in advance. This allows Grillo to understand his character’s journey, development, and how he fits into the overall narrative.
- MCU: Marvel often works “on the fly.” Many actors go into filming with little knowledge of the full story, as secrecy and sudden script changes are common. While this unpredictability adds excitement, it can also be overwhelming.
Creative Satisfaction and Role Depth
Grillo’s time in the MCU left him feeling underutilized. His villainous character, Crossbones, had only limited appearances despite being a major figure in Marvel Comics.
In contrast, his role as Rick Flag Sr. in the DCU comes with far more weight. He will portray the character across multiple projects:
- Animated series: Creature Commandos
- Live-action film: Superman
- Television: Peacemaker Season 2
This gives Grillo one of the most significant and recurring roles in James Gunn’s rebooted DC Universe.
Vision for the Universe
Another major difference lies in how each studio builds its cinematic world:
- Marvel: A tightly interconnected storyline where nearly every film leads into the next.
- DCU (under James Gunn): A universe that allows standalone stories to shine. Gunn compares it to Game of Thrones or Star Wars—a single shared world where each project tells its own distinct story while contributing to the larger vision.
What This Means for Actors and Fans
Grillo’s perspective reveals a lot about the evolving landscape of superhero entertainment.
- For actors: DCU’s transparency and long-term planning make it easier to connect deeply with roles.
- For fans: Expect more character-driven stories that explore different corners of the DC Universe without losing focus in a crowded narrative.
Grillo himself admits he feels more at home in the DCU, where his work is valued and his character has meaningful impact.
