For years now, production companies have been championing LGBTQ+ representation in cinema and unsurprisingly, major franchises like Marvel and DC have also joined the movement. In fact, just recently, DC introduced the first bisexual Man of Steel and although the move raised some eyebrows within the comic book community, it pretty much proved that majority of fans are now more open with the idea and existence of gay superheroes.
Eternals Features first Openly Gay Marvel Superhero
On the MCU side of things, Marvel Studios' forthcoming offering Eternals promises to break barriers in the world of comic book films with the introduction of Phastos, the franchise's first openly gay superhero who has a husband and a son. Naturally, some fans aren't too thrilled with the creative direction the studio has set for its heroes with some even saying that they're forcing LGBTQ+ representation in the MCU.
Kristen Stewart Blasts Fans Who Criticize LGBTQ+ Representation in Superhero Films
Twilight actress Kristen Stewart recently caught up with Variety's Clayton Davis to talk about the LGBTQ+ representation in comic books and superhero films. Naturally, the upcoming Superman comic featuring Clark Kent and Lois Lane's bisexual son and Eternals' Phastos were brought up, and while Stewart isn't exactly familiar with the said characters, she's pretty happy about Marvel and DC championing diversity and representation.
Criticizing the fans who believe that superheroes should only be portrayed a certain way, Kristen, who is openly bisexual herself said: "If you’re happier and more comfortable looking in the rearview mirror, that is where we’ll leave you, brah. But yeah, sure, go watch every other movie that hasn’t really touched on what we are, and we will just continue growing without you."
Also Read: Kevin Feige on Eternals LGBTQ+ Superhero Representation: " It's just the start."
I think it's great that the LGBTQ+ community is finally getting represented in superhero films and quite frankly, it's been long overdue. Of course, I get that it's not everyone's cup of tea and it may take a lot of getting used to for some fans but this is the world we're living in now and we should be more accepting of these changes. I mean, it's not like it's doing anyone harm.
Eternals is hitting cinemas on November 5, 2021.
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