Brian Cox, the Emmy award-winning actor known for his role in HBO’s Succession, shared worries about the film industry during a recent panel discussion. The 78-year-old actor noted how superhero movies have come to play a big role in cinema. Cox said these types of blockbuster films are overshadowing other kinds of movies and TV shows that tell unique stories.
At the Edinburgh International Film Festival, Cox discussed how superhero franchises from Marvel and DC have become very popular. However, he said this trend could be hurting creative work in the movie business. According to Cox, television is now doing what films used to by presenting complex narratives. Meanwhile, cinema may be struggling because superhero and related movies attract so much attention.
Cox specifically pointed to Deadpool and Wolverine as recent superhero films. While these blockbusters make a lot of money, Cox thinks they lead to less variety in productions afterwards. He said the industry seems to just repeat the same kinds of titles. Cox also jokingly remarked that characters he helped create, like William Stryker in X-Men 2, still appear in other movies without paying him.
In addition, Cox expressed frustration with changes to casting procedures. Now actors often submit self-taped auditions without meeting directors first. Cox called this process “disgusting” because performers may not receive any feedback on their tryouts.
However, Cox remains optimistic about high-quality television shows on platforms like HBO, Netflix, and others. He praised series for having longer runtimes to fully develop characters and stories. Cox is also directing his own film that celebrates his home country of Scotland. While open to collaboration, he warned that directors must avoid too much control which can stifle creativity.
Cox believes many in the movie industry and audiences want to see more original films beyond just comic book adaptations. Only time will tell if cinemas can find a healthier balance between blockbuster franchises and independent productions.
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