Behind the Mask: Superhero Fact and Fiction

August 24, 2023

We're certainly living in the golden age of superheroes! Though the first recognisable superhero, Superman, burst onto the scene in 1938, it's only since the launch of the Iron Man franchise and all the associated movies, multiverses, sequels and TV shows that it seems you can't swing a cat without bumping into a billion-dollar blockbuster.

These early superheroes, like Wonder Woman, reflected the values and aspirations of their era, embodying ideals of courage, morality, and determination. As society evolved, so did the superhero genre, adapting to changing norms and addressing contemporary issues. Black Panther is an excellent example of this! The first black superhero was introduced during the civil rights movement in the United States, and his creation was a significant step toward more diverse representation in comic books.

Some surprising Marvel facts

1. Robert Downey Jr.'s Snacks on Set: Robert Downey Jr., who played Iron Man/Tony Stark, reportedly had a habit of hiding snacks all over the set. He would place snacks in various places, like in his suit or on the set pieces, and then pull them out during filming breaks.

2. Vin Diesel's Unique Script: Vin Diesel, who voices Groot in the Guardians of the Galaxy films, reportedly had a special script for "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" that included translations of Groot's famous line "I am Groot" in multiple languages. This was done to help Diesel understand the context and emotion behind each line.

3. Real Ants for Ant-Man: For some scenes in "Ant-Man," real ants were used to help achieve authenticity. The production team placed tiny harnesses on the ants to guide their movements, and then digitally enlarged them to interact with the characters.

4. Tom Holland's Hidden Script: Tom Holland, known for his tendency to accidentally reveal spoilers, was given a special redacted script for "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Avengers: Endgame" to prevent him from accidentally leaking plot details.

The villains we love to hate

The Joker

The Joker, often regarded as one of the most iconic and enigmatic villains in pop culture, is a recurring antagonist in Batman's world. Created by Jerry Robinson, Bill Finger, and Bob Kane, the Joker made his first appearance in Batman #1 in 1940 (Robinson, 2011). His origins have remained deliberately shrouded in mystery, with his true name and background constantly shifting, reflecting his chaotic nature. The Joker's portrayal has been brought to life by various actors, with notable performances by Jack Nicholson in Tim Burton's "Batman" (1989) and Heath Ledger in Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight" (2008). Known for his twisted sense of humor, obsession with chaos, and unpredictable behavior, the Joker serves as a chilling counterpoint to Batman's vigilantism, embodying the darker aspects of human psychology and societal breakdown.

Hades

Hades, the captivating and charismatic Lord of the Underworld, is a standout villain in Disney's animated film Hercules (1997). Voiced by James Woods, Hades possesses a unique blend of humor, wit, and malevolence. The character draws inspiration from Greek mythology, where Hades rules the realm of the dead. In the film, Hades hatches a devious plan to unleash the Titans and seize control of Mount Olympus, using Hercules' vulnerability as his weapon. His fiery blue hair and smoldering personality make him visually striking and instantly recognisable. Hades' clever quips and sardonic humor provide a refreshing twist on the traditional Disney villain, solidifying his place as one of the more memorable antagonists in the Disney animated canon.

Loki

Marvel's Loki, portrayed brilliantly by Tom Hiddleston, has achieved a remarkable level of adoration among fans worldwide. With his charismatic mischief and complex persona, Loki has evolved from a cunning antagonist to a multi-dimensional character who elicits both sympathy and admiration. Hiddleston's captivating portrayal brings depth to Loki's struggles, vulnerabilities, and wit, making him a magnetic presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The character's intricate development and intricate sibling dynamics with Thor, along with his charismatic quips and unexpected acts of heroism, have endeared Loki to audiences. This widespread affection for the God of Mischief showcases the power of storytelling and character evolution in cultivating a beloved and enduring pop culture icon.