Adam DeVine is setting the record straight! Following the backlash he received for seemingly criticizing Marvel movies, the comedian claimed the media had misconstrued his words.
The Iowa native is among the 21st-century’s leading funny men, appearing in numerous beloved projects like the “Pitch Perfect” franchise. Given his success in this genre, the 39-year-old had a right to be concerned about the decline in theater releases of comedy films.
However, his two cents on the situation did not sit well with many who believed the Hollywood sensation blamed superhero films for negatively impacting comedy movies. Please keep reading to learn the Comedy Central star’s explanation for his controversial comments.
Adam DeVine Calls Out ‘Misleading’ Headlines While Defending His Opinions About Marvel Movies
Following a viral article, the “Workaholics” co-creator was forced to address the ongoing narrative about his thoughts on Marvel’s Cinematic Universe (MCU). The news released by Variety caught the actor’s attention for allegedly taking his words out of context.
While promoting the story, the outlet dropped a snippet of the report on X (formerly known as Twitter) that read: “Adam Devine: ‘You watch comedies nowadays and you’re like, this is not a f—ing comedy…My theory: I think Marvel ruined it.’”
Responding to this tweet, the “Adam DeVine’s House Party” star explained his opinions did not stem from hatred for Marvel movies. Instead, the Iowa native tried to prove a point about the superhero franchise’s influence in the industry.
“As a guy who loves movies and tv, it’s cool to be in Variety, but this is misleading. I like Marvel and think these movies are cool,” the 39-year-old began, stressing that his comments were directed at studios rather than the MCU.
“I was saying that studios (in trying to compete with Marvel) have stopped making mid-budget comedies,” the stand-up personality clarified. “I miss seeing comedy in the theaters!”
As a guy who loves movies and tv it’s cool to be in Variety but this is misleading. I like Marvel and think these movies are cool. I was saying that studios (in trying to compete with Marvel) have stopped making mid budget comedies. I miss seeing comedy in the theaters! https://t.co/a1S4GxO5W0
— ADAMDEVINE (@ADAMDEVINE) August 8, 2023
DeVine’s thoughts about the decline of box-office comedy films came during the press tour for his Netflix movie, “The Out-Laws.” While appearing on Theo Von’s “This Past Weekend” podcast, the entertainer addressed the matter, saying:
“You watch comedies nowadays, and you’re like, this is not a fucking comedy. Where are the jokes? Where are the bits? There’s still good [comedy] shows, but movie comedy…it’s hard.”
“My theory: I think Marvel ruined it. I feel like superhero movies ruined comedies because you go to the theater and expect to watch something that cost $200 million to make, and comedy movies aren’t that,” the 39-year-old argued.
Because of the inability of traditional comedy projects to match the excessive budget of these action-packed movies, DeVine believed fans would rather watch superhero films at the theater than see a comedy flick.
According to the Teen Choice Award winner, viewers could get a dose of laughter from movies like those of the MCU since they incorporated jokes in their stories. However, the Hollywood sensation did not approve of this form of comedy.
“And they still make those movies kind of funny, like, ‘Oh my god, is that raccoon talking? This is hilarious!’ Which it is, but it’s not a real comedy,” the TV personality claimed.
Renowned Film Director Quentin Tarantino Declared MCU Performers Were Not Real Movie Stars
DeVine is not the only celebrity to address the growing influence of Marvel movies in Hollywood. Last November, movie producer Quentin Tarantino raised eyebrows with his comments about the franchise and its actors.
During an appearance on the “2 Bears, 1 Cave” podcast, the 60-year-old argued that the MCU’s performers were not real movie stars. According to the Knoxville native, the entertainers were not the idols to be revered; instead, it was the characters they played.
“Part of the Marvel-ization of Hollywood is…you have all these actors who have become famous playing these characters,” Tarantino explained. “But they’re not movie stars. Right? Captain America is the star. Or Thor is the star.”
“I mean, I’m not the first person to say that. I think that’s been said a zillion times…but it’s like, you know, it’s these franchise characters that become a star,” the two-time Oscar nominee continued, clarifying that his comments were not an attack on the actors or the franchise.
Although the famous director was not against Marvel projects, the father of two confessed he disliked the fact that Hollywood was no longer interested in producing other genres. “My only axe to grind against them is they’re the only things that seem to be made,” the Knoxville native lamented.