Last month, I made the decision to watch “Thunderbolts,” the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). As I entered the theater without my 11-year-old, I was unsure if this movie would be suitable for a tween audience. Marvel had taken a different approach with this film, straying away from the typical good-versus-evil narrative and embracing a darker tone. After the movie ended, I found myself pondering whether it would be appropriate for younger viewers.
“Thunderbolts” follows a group of antiheroes who reluctantly come together to save the day. Yelena Belova, portrayed by Florence Pugh, serves as one of the main characters. She narrates her disaffected and bored existence, showcasing her mercenary skills while yearning for something more meaningful in her life. This sense of discontent sets the tone for the entire film.
In this world, the traditional concept of a superhero is dead, at least for the time being. The new heroes are flawed, rebellious, and unconventional. They defy rules, make frequent mistakes, and carry deep emotional scars that drive their actions. These characters have backgrounds that resemble those of villains rather than heroes. As a parent, I questioned whether exposing my child to such characters was appropriate. However, I couldn’t ignore the fact that my child would likely be drawn to these complex and relatable personas. My child, who recently begged for a Darth Vader T-shirt and finds Superman’s unwavering goodness unappealing.
Our children are growing up in a rapidly evolving media landscape, with access to a multitude of digital platforms and content. It’s challenging for parents to keep pace with these changes and monitor the portrayals of their children and the world they inhabit. The idealized heroes of the past, symbolizing strength, resilience, and unwavering morality, are being replaced by more nuanced and flawed characters.
While this shift in media representation may be disconcerting to some, it also offers an opportunity for children to engage with complex and realistic portrayals of heroism. These new heroes prioritize empathy, collaboration, and authenticity over traditional notions of power and invincibility. They acknowledge their imperfections and vulnerabilities while still rising to the occasion and saving the day.
Concerns about the well-being and mental health of Generation Z and Alpha are prevalent among parents and researchers. Studies have shown that both parents and children perceive the mental health of young people as fair or poor. The challenges of modern adolescence, exacerbated by social media, technological advancements, and societal changes, have raised questions about resilience and emotional well-being.
In my recent book on gender and power in media franchises, I explore how cultural perceptions of power and heroism evolve over time. The depiction of heroes in popular media reflects broader societal shifts and influences how viewers interpret power dynamics in the real world. Characters like Wonder Woman have undergone significant transformations to align with contemporary values and challenges.
The media we consume serves as a reflection of our culture and can shape our understanding of heroism and morality. While parents should consider their family values and children’s sensitivities when selecting media content, exposure to darker narratives can spark important conversations about resilience, empathy, and moral ambiguity. Children growing up in a complex and tumultuous world may find solace and inspiration in antiheroes who navigate challenges with authenticity and compassion.
As parents, we must acknowledge that our children are confronting a different reality than we did in our youth. Encouraging critical thinking about heroism and ethics, and discussing the evolving nature of hero narratives, can empower children to navigate a world where perfection is unattainable, and imperfection is celebrated. Embracing the changing landscape of heroism and encouraging our children to embrace diverse and flawed heroes may be crucial in shaping their worldview and fostering resilience in the face of uncertainty.
