Superhero-Movie Bubble? 3 of 3

Note:  This three-part examination of a superhero bubble was originally written in the summer of 2018 and appeared on the now defunct Perro Worldwide Comics "Comics Archive" blog. Due to this report's continued relevance, it is being republished here, in its entirety.

***

Is there a Superhero-Movie Bubble - Part III

Written by Chip Perro

If my predictions are accurate, and I think that they are, a collapsing superhero-movie bubble won't sit well with true comic and sci-fi fans.

So, I thought I'd wrap up this three part series with a few of the positives, and talk a little bit about why a bursting superhero bubble could ultimately elevate everything for the better.

It might surprise you, but I'm actually looking forward to it.

Here's why...

First things first, the superhero genre has endured since the late 1930's, and it will continue to endure.

Even with the bubble popping.

When superheroes retreat back into the comics, I predict a chance for real creative growth.  It's when the genre is at its lowest that creative freedom is at it's highest. The best stories have yet to be written. 

Right now, comics are used more as a marketing tool for superhero films. They exist, for the most part, only to promote the massive movies that are being released in their name. With the end of the Superhero-Movie-Age, plots can be bolder. There is the possibility for new ideas, fewer stories by committee, and a general creative rejuvenation.

One of the things that comic & sci-fi fans have always loved about the comics are their insider, niche market. Secret knowledge and that sort of thing... I remember, so many years ago, my local comic shop had a sign on the front door... Describing comics as a trash medium.

It wasn't mean to be derogatory. It was a  reflection of public opinion. That comics, and superheroes in general, were part of a misunderstood subculture.  Today, the whole world knows just how powerful this fiction is.

The secret is out.

When superheroes retreat back to the comics, the secret will build again. Creativity will flourish, and eventually, when the time is right, they'll return to the silver screen, stronger than ever before, and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.