James Cameron Shades Marvel and DC? Director Compares 'Avatar' to Superhero Films

Director James Cameron criticizes Marvel films in comparison to the depth present in his films.

James Cameron's career as a director dates back to as early as 1978. He rose to prominence for sci-fi titles he directed including "The Terminator", "Xenogenesis", "Aliens", and more. One of his biggest Hollywood breakthroughs includes the classic "Titanic" starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. 

However, with the premiere of his latest film, "Avatar: The Way of Water", James Cameron reveals the secret to writing his characters from the fantasy blockbuster "Avatar" film franchise.

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James Cameron Shades Marvel and DC Characters?

In a recent interview with the New York Times, the 68-year-old director talked about the development of his characters in "Avatar" as parents in the film sequel. 

When asked about the changes he incorporated into writing Jake Sully and Ney'tiri, Cameron went on to discuss the depth of them that is not present in other characters, namely, superheroes from Marvel and DC films.

"When I look at these big spectacular films - I'm looking at you, Marvel and DC - it doesn't matter how old the characters are, they all act like they're in college." James Cameron expressed about superhero characters. "They have relationships, but they really don't. They never hang up their spurs because of their kids. The things that really ground us and give us power, love, and a purpose? Those characters don't experience it, and I think that's not the way to make movies."

The Character Development in 'Avatar' Sequel

"Avatar: The Way of Water" is set 15 years after the first "Avatar" film, with the lead characters now as parents. 

Expounding on his definition of depth, James Cameron compared the heroic acts of Jake Sully and Ney'tiri from the original film. James recalled how the two characters had gone on suicidal leaps of faith as heroic stunts, whereas, in the sequel, becoming parents has changed the way they act to save their tribe.

"But when you're a parent, you don't think that way. So for me, as a parent of five kids, I'm saying 'What happens when those characters mature and realize that they have a responsibility outside their own survival?'" James Cameron explained.

The sequel to the fantasy blockbuster, "Avatar: The Way of Water", is set for international release this year, arriving in theaters on December 16.

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