Nicolas Cage calls the MCU a 'well-funded and glorified WWE'
Nicolas Cage has called the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the long-running run of linked Marvel superhero films and series, a "well-funded and glorified WWE".
He made the remark while speaking at Fan Expo Dallas. The account was published on 30 September by Variety, which credited The Playlist with the original report from the panel.
Cage opened with a qualifier. Four words: "I do say this with love."
Then came the punch. "When I see these 50-plus and otherwise intelligent and remarkably gifted thespians putting on these ridiculous outfits and getting ready for the fight — let's face it, it's all cutting to the fight — it's hard for me not to be reminded that the MCU is becoming a well-funded and glorified WWE," Cage said.
The comparison is to WWE, the American professional wrestling organisation built around costumed personas and staged bouts. Cage did not name individual performers or films. His point was about the pattern he sees: elaborate dress followed by combat.
Cage himself is not part of the MCU. His Marvel screen work sits outside that particular franchise. He played Ghost Rider in 2007's Ghost Rider and in 2012's Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.
His most recent Marvel project was Sony's Spider-Noir. He played the title character. The series was cancelled after one season of eight episodes, with his Fan Expo Dallas panel coming after that cancellation.
Spider-Noir was based on the Marvel Comics character Spider-Man Noir. It was adapted for television by Oren Uziel. The story took place during the Great Depression, with Cage as Ben Reilly, a private investigator in 1930s New York.
Before the premiere, Cage told Variety he had been attracted less by its superhero roots than by its design. The plan was to shoot in black and white as a classic film noir, the stark crime style built on shadows, detectives and moral grey areas.
What makes this stand out is the vantage point. Cage has worked with Marvel characters without joining the central MCU cast. His criticism arrives with that opening note of affection still attached.
