The Best Character Development In MCU’s Recent Films

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been on a tear lately, churning out blockbuster hit after blockbuster hit. But beyond the mind-blowing special effects, epic battles, and globe-trotting adventures, one of the most impressive aspects of the MCU’s recent films is their mastery of character development.

Take, for example, the character of Yelena Belova in Black Widow. Natasha Romanoff’s sister has a relatively small amount of screen time, but in that time, Florence Pugh’s incredible performance brings Yelena to life in a way that’s both heartbreaking and hilarious. We see her struggles to reconcile her complicated past with her complicated present, and her snarky exterior is expertly balanced by a deep well of vulnerability.

Or consider the quietly stunning development of Thor in Thor: Love and Thunder. Chris Hemsworth’s lovable lummox of a god has always been a fan favorite, but in this film, we see him at his most vulnerable and uncertain. Struggling to come to terms with his new body and his new place in the universe, Thor is no longer the confident, cocky hero we once knew. Instead, he’s awkward, self-conscious, and endearingly unsure of himself. Hemsworth’s commitment to this new, softer side of Thor is a revelation, and it’s hard not to love the big lug even more for his willingness to be vulnerable.

And then there’s the outright astonishing transformation of Shang-Chi’s Wenwu. Played by Tony Leung, Wenwu is a complex, multifaceted character with a truly tragic backstory. He’s a villain, but he’s also a father, a husband, and a deeply broken man. Leung brings a level of nuance and depth to the role that’s simply breathtaking, and his performance is a huge part of what makes Shang-Chi such a standout film.

What all of these characters have in common is a willingness to dig deep and explore the messy, complicated inner lives of their heroes (and, occasionally, villains). The MCU’s recent films are full of characters who are complex, multifaceted, and – above all – human. They’re not just superheroes; they’re people, with all the flaws and frailties that come with being human.

This focus on character development is more than just a pleasant surprise – it’s a vital part of what makes the MCU’s recent films so engaging. By taking the time to explore the inner lives of their characters, the filmmakers are able to create a level of depth and resonance that’s hard to find in other superhero films. And that, in turn, is what makes the MCU’s recent films feel so emotionally resonant and satisfying.

So here’s to the MCU’s attention to character development – may it continue to inspire other filmmakers to dig deep and find the humanity in their heroes. With any luck, we’ll see even more standout performances and captivating character arcs in the years to come.