The MCU vs DCEU: Could the MCU Have Created a Better Universe?

When discussing the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) versus the DCEU (DC Extended Universe), one can't help but think that the MCU evidently outshines its counterpart. The DCEU has had its share of challenges, particularly with the lack of a prominent antagonist to unify its stories. Darkseid, a character that was supposed to unite the universe, didn't even get a solo film. In contrast, the MCU, with its peak moments in films like Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, has effectively utilized the depth of its characters' backstories and their collaborative efforts.

Character Development and Backstories

The strength of the MCU lies in its ability to develop character backstories and the reasons behind their actions. For instance, the Avengers: Age of Ultron and Avengers: Infinity War series delve into the origins of superheroes, their fears, and their transformations. In contrast, the DCEU, particularly with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, hastily introduced major plot points without sufficient backstories, creating disconnection and confusion for viewers.

Character Proximity and Depth

While the DCEU seemed to rush through introducing major characters and their roles, the MCU takes the time to build character depth and significance. Each character in the MCU gets ample screen time to set up who they are and how they evolve. For example, Captain America: The First Avenger established Steve Rogers' past as a soldier before he became an Avenger, while Spider-Man: Homecoming delved into Peter Parker's relationship with his friends and family.

Character Collaboration and Cooperation

One notable aspect of the MCU is the seamless way characters work together as a team. Avengers: Infinity War showcases the best of this collaboration, with multiple heroes from different backgrounds coming together to fight Thanos. The DCEU, on the other hand, often found itself with the misfortune of squeezing major moments into one flawed film. The transition from Batman to Doomsday in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a prime example of this mishandling, which left audiences feeling disconnected and confused.

Unified Story Arcs and Villains

A key element of the MCU's success is its unified story arcs and villains that pose a significant threat. The character of Thanos, while powerful, was always part of an overarching narrative. In his films, he adds layers to the story, making his eventual defeat in Avengers: Endgame resonate deeply. In contrast, the DCEU struggled with villains like Darkseid, who was introduced too late to make a substantial impact, especially without a solo film to establishes his significance.

Broader Universe Potential

While the MCU has successfully created a cohesive and engaging universe, the concept of a combined MCU and DCEU would indeed be mind-boggling. With so many characters, merging the two universes would require careful planning and execution. The sheer number of heroes and antagonists would make it incredibly difficult to balance the narrative without overwhelming the audience. However, if done right, it could create a vast and exciting multiverse that captivates fans of both franchises.

Overall, the MCU has demonstrated its ability to craft a well-structured, deeply engaging universe that evolves with each film. Whether the DCEU could have done the same, given its circumstances, remains a matter of speculation. However, the example set by the MCU provides a clear roadmap for how to build a coherent and compelling cinematic universe.