Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige recently sat down with Screen Crush to discuss the future of the Marvel Universe.
However, this time he squarely addressed the role of diversity in the films that the studio produces. Specifically, Feige discusses the role of females in the Marvel films and how they are going to proceed with future films. A female-driven standalone film from the studio has yet to happen, but "Black Widow" is the obvious front-runner for a possible bow later this decade.
Also, now that Captain Marvel is a woman, rumors have been swirling that that movie will be happening at some point. While the past week has seen the mantle of Thor become a female in the comics, Feige seems to have a tight grasp on just what the future holds for Marvel films.
During the interview, the question about "Star Wars: Episode VII" and the proceeding backlash of only a few characters being female in next year's blockbuster was addressed.
"Well, yes. I don't think J.J. Abrams or the 'Star Wars' people - I have no idea - but my guess is that they were not swayed by any backlash. We're not going to be swayed by the backlash. We're going to keep bringing the movies out the way we envision it and the way we believe in it - and that includes diversity in all of the active films. And certainly, on our development slate of many of the characters - some of which you just named - and always being conscious of that. The great thing for us is the comics have been conscious of that through the decades and have been rather pioneering in that over the years," Feige told Screen Crush.
While there are not any solid plans for future female films, the playing field of Marvel does seem to be wide open. When asked if something like the female Thor could happen on screen once the current actors are done with their contracts, Feige had this to say:
"Well, look, listen, as you know, that's happened before in the comics. It's getting a lot of attention because they've just done it, but both of those things have happened in the past. So, it's always that's part of the fun. There's always that chance to surprise people or to switch up - a number of people have worn the Cap' costume. A number of people have lifted Mjölnir. So, that's all fodder for future storytelling," Feige explained to the site.
Fans will have to wait and see just what the studio has in store for diversity in its comic book movies. Under the guidance of Feige, the studio seems to have the fate of female character in very capable hands.
