Comic book depictions of superheroines as politicians illustrate how sexism weakens democracy and why comics history is relevant to contemporary politics.
Latino characters have traditionally been underrepresented in mainstream comics. But Spider-Man’s backstory makes him the perfect superhero to be recast as a minority.
Stan Lee deserves his place in the pantheon of great pop culture architects, but his Marvel characters did more than just entertain – they actively fought against prejudice.
Director Taika Waititi enjoys playing with notions of masculinity in this latest outing of the franchise which sees the macho hero eclipsed by a female character of equal standing.
There are many nods to Mesopotamian myth in Marvel’s Eternals. The character of Gilgamesh is the first ancient Near Eastern hero with a leading role in a Marvel film.
Neither the Second World War nor 9/11 stopped weekly comic book distribution to comic stores. But COVID-19 means production and distribution is now on hold, and the future of comics is up in the air.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe brings the virtues and politics of the comic world - indeed the Ancient Greek world - to life. But trusting the message doesn’t mean I trust the corporation behind it.
Clifford Johnson, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
The film wowed critics and fans. But its hidden power may be black lead characters who are accomplished scientists – just the thing to help inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.
Australian comic producers punch above their weight globally – many have been picked up by international publishers yet remain little known at home. Here are 10 of the best.
Unlike the Greek heroes, many Mesopotamian mythical figures have slipped into obscurity. An exception to this is their representation in comics, such as Gilgamesh, who served alongside Captain America as an Avenger.
Elon Musk is an open admirer of the fictional Tony Stark, whose alter‑ego is none other than Iron Man. But Tesla’s recent financial results prove Musk to be more vulnerable than his hero…