Marvel's Black Widow Movie: No Rush for Scarlett Johansson's Age

Marvel is already far into pre-production on the Black Widow movie, a project that has been looming on the horizon for several years. Despite concerns over Scarlett Johansson's age, it's clear that she still has many years left in her as Black Widow. In fact, actors of a similar age to Ms. Johansson, such as Ben Affleck (Batman) and Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), have defied expectations and continued in their roles well into their forties.

Scarlett Johansson's Career Span

At 33 years old, Scarlett Johansson is far from the typical age range for a superhero film protagonist. She has already starred in multiple films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and has established herself as a formidable and agile action hero. With no signs of aging visibly, the focus should be on the character's performance rather than doubts about her age.

Reason for the Black Widow Movie

While it's true that Marvel is likely making the Black Widow movie to capitalize on the success of films like Wonder Woman, concerns about Johansson potentially "aging out" of the role are unfounded. Even if the movie isn't released until 2021, she will still be around 35, which is a prime age for a superhero cape.

Stunt Performances and Makeup Tricks

In action films, the majority of the physical stunts are often performed by stunt doubles. Scarlett Johansson pulled off the role of Black Widow in Age of Ultron while pregnant, and makeup and wardrobe tricks can further enhance her appearance. These tools allow for the illusion that the character remains youthful and vibrant throughout her adventures.

Character Age and Storytelling

The fears about Scarlett Johansson's age are partially rooted in the idea that she must still appeal to a demographic, often seen as a sexist assumption. Moreover, the character's age does not necessarily constrain the storytelling. Whether the Black Widow movie is an origin story or a standalone adventure, the focus will be on the character's skills and her unique background as a highly trained assassin and spy.

Conclusion

Scarlett Johansson is a talented actress with a proven track record in the MCU. Her age should not be a deterrent to her portrayal of Black Widow. With the support of modern filmmaking techniques, including stunt performances and extensive makeup, there is no rush for Marvel to rush into production or release. The character's appeal and the actress's ability to embody her make the Black Widow movie a highly anticipated addition to the Marvel universe.