Buzz
Superheroes appear completely whitewashed with their altered appearances on the big screen.
Throughout cinematic history, Marvel has frequently whitewashed characters in their films, risking damage to the characters and even the entire franchise. However, not all changes are necessarily bad ideas. Therefore, Marvel needs to be more careful in altering the skin color of characters to avoid controversy or actively create new characters of color. As audience members, we should also give these characters a fresh chance to shine on screen.
Valkyrie in Thor: Ragnarok
The character Valkyrie made her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the standalone film Thor: Ragnarok. After the film's release, she became an intriguing element that garnered widespread attention and lively discussions among audiences. The image of a hot-headed, powerful tomboy left a profound impression on many fans. However, according to the original source material, the brave warrior of Asgard was described as a fair-skinned blonde. Yet, the character was portrayed by actress Tessa Thompson, who is of color.
Nick Fury in Iron Man
Since his first appearance in the post-credit scene of Iron Man in 2008, Nick Fury has consistently played a pivotal role in the MCU, with many fans even considering him the leader of the Avengers due to his stirring speeches or direct involvement in their successes.
Nick Fury's appearance on screen initially drew from the white version of the character in the comics. However, when entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Nick Fury's appearance was based on the black version of the character. Esteemed actor Samuel L. Jackson portrayed this character in the MCU, serving as the inspiration for the black version in the comics as well.
Heimdall in Thor
Asgard's Heimdall possesses a unique ability to observe all life forms in the universe at any time and place. He is also a righteous, courageous, and extremely wise warrior. Like his fellow Asgardian, Valkyrie, the guardian god of Asgard is depicted as fair-skinned with blond hair in the comics. However, British actor Idris Elba portrayed this character in the film as a black man. This decision sparked controversy as Heimdall is known as the whitest of the gods.
Heimdall's presence in the MCU sparked significant controversy. The American community subsequently threatened to boycott the Thor film for changing Heimdall's race to black. However, these threats did not sway Marvel.
Electro in The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Electro is portrayed as an antagonist in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, possessing the ability to absorb electricity into his body and unleash devastating explosions. However, the character's appearance underwent a complete overhaul when transitioning to the big screen, with actor Jamie Foxx taking on the role.
Mordo in Doctor Strange
Baron Mordo is known as the heir to the prestigious Mordo lineage. He is also a fellow student of Doctor Strange, both studying under the then-Sorcerer Supreme, the Ancient One. However, fueled by resentment and envy, Mordo later becomes Doctor Strange's adversary.
This iconic villain is depicted as a menacing white man in the comics. However, the character's portrayal in the film features a gentle-looking black man portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor.
