In the realm of filmmaking, the collaborative dance between directors and studios often shapes the destiny of a movie. Angel Manuel Soto, the creative force behind the upcoming DC movie Blue Beetle, sheds light on the intriguing dynamics between himself, James Gunn, and Peter Safran, as they brought the story to life.
Amidst the buzz surrounding Blue Beetle, questions have arisen about James Gunn’s influence on the final cut. Angel Manuel Soto, in an exclusive conversation with GamesRadar+, shares a candid glimpse into the collaborative journey.
He confirms that while Gunn and Safran didn’t have an overpowering hand in the details, they embraced the project’s vision wholeheartedly.
A Guiding Hand, Not a Micromanager
Soto reveals, “The studio always, generally, has their hands on it. As far as the essence of the story, [James Gunn and Peter Safran] liked what we were doing and they respected the vision and what we were trying to do with the film.” This sentiment echoes a balance between creative freedom and studio involvement, highlighting the trust that existed throughout the filmmaking process.
The theme of ‘family’ is central to Blue Beetle, drawing parallels to Gunn’s affinity for familial dynamics showcased in his Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy. Soto emphasizes his commitment to crafting fully-fleshed characters, not mere plot devices. “We didn’t want to treat them like props.
We want to give them arcs. They all deserve the attention that we give them. The love that you feel for them makes everything that happens more visceral,” explains Soto. This approach infuses depth and authenticity into the characters, enriching the overall cinematic experience.
Clarifying Gunn’s ‘First’ Remark
Gunn’s comment on Blue Beetle as the “first” DCU character raised eyebrows. Soto clarifies this by highlighting the distinction between the movie’s release and the official DCU launch.
Although the cinematic universe embarks with DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, the spotlight remains firmly on the emergence of Jaime Reyes and his journey on the big screen.
As anticipation reaches a crescendo, mark your calendars for August 18, when Blue Beetle hits UK and US cinemas. With directorial dedication, studio collaboration, and James Gunn’s appreciation, the film promises to be an engaging and heartfelt addition to the DC universe.
With the insights shared by Angel Manuel Soto, it’s evident that Blue Beetle’s creative tapestry was woven through a harmonious interplay of talents, ultimately shaping a film that captures both the essence of its characters and the grandeur of the DC universe.
