Why Do Marvel Writers Ignore Jim Starlin's Complex Characterization of Thanos?

The characterization of Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and some comic adaptations has often simplified his complex persona, which was originally crafted by Jim Starlin. This article explores the reasons behind this simplification and discusses the evolution of the character.

Different Mediums

One of the primary reasons for this simplification is the difference in storytelling techniques between films and comics. Jim Starlin's Thanos is richly detailed, showcasing philosophical depth and intricate motivations. However, films prioritize visual impact and streamlined narratives, which can make it challenging to convey such depth within a two-hour runtime.

Audience Expectations

The MCU aims to appeal to a broad audience, including those who may not be familiar with the comics. Simplifying Thanos into a more recognizable villain archetype makes it easier for casual viewers to understand his role without delving into his complicated backstory. This approach helps to maintain viewer engagement by keeping the narrative accessible.

Focus on Action

Superhero films often emphasize action and spectacle, leading to a focus on physical threats rather than character development. As a result, villains like Thanos are frequently depicted primarily as physical threats rather than complex figures with nuanced motivations. This prioritization of action can detract from the depth of the character's backstory and philosophy.

Narrative Convenience

Writers may opt for a straightforward portrayal of Thanos to serve the immediate needs of the plot. This approach can help maintain pacing and keep the focus on the heroes' journey. However, it often results in a one-note villain, lacking the depth and complexity that Jim Starlin's interpretation offered.

Evolution of Character

Characters in comics often evolve over time and interpretations can vary widely. Some modern writers may prioritize different aspects of Thanos' character, leading to inconsistencies with Starlin's original portrayal. This evolution can understandably affect how the character is perceived and depicted in different mediums.

Jim Starlin's Thanos, marked by his existential musings and complex motivations—especially regarding love and death—has been reinterpreted in various ways. Many adaptations have adopted a more straightforward villain archetype to align with the narrative style and audience of the MCU.

Some might argue that Starlin's Thanos who grew up and moved away from nihilism and developed a more nuanced approach, such as his character's interactions with Mistress Death, is more difficult to portray in a straightforward superhero genre. This complexity is often lost in favor of a more edgy and ultraviolent version of the character, which Marvel executives may prefer.

The problem with this approach is that it overlooks the depth and intricacies of Starlin's original characterization. The character's journey and his motivations, such as his existential struggles, cannot be fully captured in a simplified villain archetype. Instead, this simplification focuses on the more straightforward aspects of his character, such as his willingness to sacrifice everything for his cause.

Furthermore, the simplification of Thanos can be seen as a misunderstanding of the character's full potential. While Thanos in comics is indeed a formidable and multifaceted villain, his character's evolution and complexity are essential to his appeal. Simplifying him can lead to a loss of depth and, consequently, a diminished impact on the story.

For fans like me, who cherish the complexity of Starlin's Thanos, the simplification can be frustrating. However, Marvel has recently taken steps to rectify this with one-shot graphic novels (OGNs), which offer a more nuanced portrayal of the character. These OGNs serve as a bridge between the original comics and the film adaptations, providing a deeper understanding of the character's journey.

These OGNs are akin to what Fallout New Vegas was to Fallout 3 fans. They offer a more faithful and detailed portrayal of the character, allowing fans to reconnect with the complex and multifaceted versions of Thanos that starlin originally created.

In conclusion, the simplification of Thanos in the MCU and certain comic adaptations is a result of various factors, including different mediums, audience expectations, a focus on action, narrative convenience, and the evolution of the character. While these adaptations have their merits, they often fall short of capturing the full complexity of Jim Starlin's original portrayal. OGNs are a step in the right direction, but there is still room for more nuanced and detailed characterizations of the iconic villain.