Representation of defense organizations in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (2008-2019)

Abstract

Homeland security and defense are common themes in superhero films. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is formed by more than twenty films made over the course of a decade (2008-2019), during the government of three different Presidents of the United States. In this paper we analyze the diminishing representation of real defense forces in the MCU films. How the interference of the superhero is used as a narrative excuse to suggest a lack of or deficiencies in the law concerning freedom and defense is also studied, as well as how the films make a metaphorical discourse about the historical reality after September 11th.