Madame Web

Originally published on social media on May 15th, 2024

I heard that this film got terrible reviews, and after thoroughly enjoying it, I wondered why. I went searching for other reviews and found vague responses. To summarize, people’s main complaints were about storytelling methods and perspectives. Some called it predictable, sloppy, boring, or without humor. I disagree with all the above.

I think so much of how people rate films is based on if it meets their expectations or preconceived notions of how it should be. Marvel and DC universes have these film formulas that audiences have grown both used to and addicted to, and that’s not always good. Yes, some good films have come out of it, but as a result, creativity is put into a box…what a shame. With film formulas, audiences interests start fitting into a box too. Madame Web goes against the formula, and I think people’s critiques are unconsciously because of that.

Another critique I read said that this film was designed for the male gaze. As a feminist, I disagree with that. Four women helping each other out and beating a bad guy while wearing fairly modest clothing…that sounds like the opposite of meeting the male gaze. The only scene where the women are showing a bit more skin is when they are dancing to Brittney Spears, and that scene felt more like a symbol of girl/womanhood of the early 2000’s than means of accommodating the male gaze. Brittney Spears taught girls how to embrace the phase when they are not a girl, not yet a woman, and learning how to find themselves while their in between, and that’s exactly what the characters were doing. Also there were maybe like 3 men total in a female dominated film about women with varying interests (including science). The male gaze doesn’t like super smart, beautiful but normal looking women in average attire embracing who they are.

I challenge you, when you watch this film or others, leave your expectations and check boxes at the door and come in with an open mind. I encourage you to ignore the reviews (except mine ). You might be surprised by what you find. By doing this, you allow film to teach you how to further embrace diversity and creativity, and it enriches your life.