Unsung Heroes in Superhero Cinemas: New Perspectives and Strange Storylines

Superhero movies have been entertaining audiences for decades with thrilling action, complex characters, and intriguing storylines. However, there are still many aspects of the genre that have not been fully explored. This article will explore some of the unsung heroes in our beloved superhero movies and discuss potential new perspectives and strange storylines for future productions.

The Underexplored Villain Whips: Using Gases to Create Mortis Smiles

Since the Joker's debut in Batman: The Telltale Series, in 1966, the iconic villain has assuredly used a range of methods to wreak havoc on the world of Gotham. Yet, one of his preferred methods of inflicting suffering remains unaddressed: a gas that causes his victims' faces to enter rigor mortis and take on the shape of a demented smile. This is a concept that has never been fully realized in live-action films. For instance, in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns and more recently in the Dark Knight trilogy, the Joker’s arsenal of weapons and schemes are often more swords and guns than gas.

The Unique Supers: No More Double Lives

One of the most common themes in superhero films is the duality of being a masked vigilante and a normal citizen. However, what if we explored a version of a hero or villain who does not have a life in the two worlds? What would that look like? This digital age has made this possibility more believable and potential for compelling characters. For instance, the hero or villain could find that their alter-ego is a fictional creation, making the wearer feel more like pure fiction. Similarly, the alter-ego might be a digital avatar, an online persona, or a hologram projection, challenging the notion of 'real' and 'fake' and blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

Sidekicks and Supernaturals: Give Them the Spotlight

The sidekick and the animal companion sidekick have always been a noteworthy presence in superhero tales. However, what if they were given more agency, more depth, and more screen time? In the case of a pet or superpet, they could have their own loves, or even be capable of small feats of heroism on their own. The incorporation of a group of villains with a common cause or goal could change the dynamic of the narrative as well, allowing for a more complex and multi-faceted villainy. In Megamind, the main villain has a sidekick, but a live-action version of a villain with a team of henchmen would bring a new level of narration and engagement to the screen. This caters to the vast array of possibilities for storytelling and character development.

The Unconventional Heroes: Mad Scientists and More

Mad scientists have long been a staple of the superhero genre, providing a rich tapestry of plot devices and character development. However, what if instead of being the villains, they were the heroes? This would provide a fresh take on the concept of scientific innovation being used for good. Imagine a story where a brilliant but misunderstood scientist invents a series of technologies that help the world, but faces resistance and persecution from those who fear the unknown. This allows for a more nuanced exploration of the ethical implications of technology and scientific advancement.

Multigenerational Heroes: First Dates, Family Friendships, and Cousin Bonds

Another element that could breathe new life into superhero movies is the introduction of multigenerational heroism. For example, a first date storylines where both parties turn out to be superheroes in their own right, or a family or group of friends sharing their adventures as a team, or in the case of cousins, developing a bond on common savior goals. This idea can be particularly compelling as it provides a relatable and heartfelt narrative, one that shows how ordinary people can become truly extraordinary.

Breaking Stereotypes: Adding New Dimensions to Villains

Many superhero movies rely on the traditional tropes of the villain being an antagonist for simple, understandable reasons. However, what if we introduced a villain with good intentions, or at least a twisted one? A gay villain, for instance, could add layers of complexity to the character, allowing for a more nuanced and mature portrayal of power and conflict. This not only adds diversity to the genre but also provides a more realistic and relatable portrayal of the human condition.

Young Heroines and Heroes: Prime Time for Youth

Finally, let's talk about putting a focus on a young hero. Age 6-10 is a critical period for character development, and while there are some exceptions, such as Power Rangers and Puella Magi Madoka Magica, we have yet to see a young, small child take center stage in a major blockbuster. Imagine a story with a super young hero, learning to navigate the world and confront evil, as both a literal and a figurative hero.

In conclusion, while the superhero genre has given us many great stories and characters, there is still a lot of unexplored territory. By incorporating these unconventional ideas, we can create a new wave of narratives that not only entertain but also challenge our perceptions and push the boundaries of the genre.