Superheroes have played a significant role in American culture since their comic book debut in 1938. The superhero genre has evolved from its comic book platform to other media like movies, t.v shows, novels, and merchandise. To add on, the genre has become extremely lucrative in American media, leading to some superhero films to garner well over a billion dollar in sales worldwide. Furthermore, the success can be credited to the various iconic superheroes who captured the hearts and minds of the audience. Heroes like Batman, Superman, Wolverine and Wonder Woman are relatable characters in which people of all cultures and races can identify and relate to the protagonists. Recently, there is a movie titled Wonder Woman starring Gal Gadot and directed by Patty Jenkins. Wonder Woman is an extremely successful film, grossing $822 million. In addition, the film receives countless accolades from various institutions and praises from media outlets. On the other hand, people have lambasted Wonder Woman for being “the same old thing.” James Cameron, the director of Avatar and Terminator, criticizes Jenkin’s Wonder Woman by calling it “That’s not breaking ground.” …show more content…
Cameron argues that Wonder Woman does not break the mold because of her outfit. The problem with this argument is that he only defines Wonder Woman by what she wears, not by her actions or dialogues. To quote Walker, “the most enduring superheroes are symbols of a set of attitudes and behaviors” (221). For example, Wonder Woman has a strong sense of justice and she stands up for her values. In one scene, she says “I am willing to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves.” Her actions prove this statement as she journeys to Europe to stop the Germans from using a deadly gas weapon that would indiscriminately kill people. In short, James Cameron should judge Wonder Woman based on her characteristics, not her outward