“I don’t make sense in that world”: Johnson’s candid take on future superhero roles
In an eye-opening discussion, Dakota Johnson, known for her versatility across various film genres, has made it clear that her foray into the superhero universe with ‘Madame Web‘ will likely be her last. The film, intended to expand Sony’s Spider-Man universe, has faced harsh criticism from both fans and critics alike, not living up to the anticipations set by the character’s rich comic book and animated series history.
‘Madame Web’, despite its promising premise of exploring the mystic, omniscient character central to Spider-Man’s multiverse adventures, has struggled to find its footing. Its performance is reflected in dismal ratings, with a mere 12 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and an IMDb score of 3.7/10. This reception places it far from the expectations and excitement that usually accompany Marvel character adaptations.
In a candid interview with Bustle, Dakota Johnson shared her insights into the challenges of big-budget film-making, emphasizing the artistic compromises that often come with committee-led decisions and algorithmic influences. “It’s so hard to get movies made,” Johnson stated, expressing her concerns over the growing trend of creativity being sidelined for data-driven approaches, even in smaller, independent films.
Her experience with ‘Madame Web’ has led her to conclude that her creative sensibilities might not align with the superhero genre’s current direction. Johnson elucidated on the transformative nature of film projects, where initial visions can morph drastically, leaving actors navigating unexpected shifts. “I probably will never do anything like it again because I don’t make sense in that world,” she remarked, underscoring a self-awareness of her fit within the vast, evolving landscape of superhero cinema.
Despite not explicitly citing the film’s reception as the basis for her decision, Johnson’s reflections hint at a nuanced understanding of her artistic path and the types of projects that resonate with her and her audience. “Audiences will always be able to sniff out [BS],” she added, championing the intelligence and discernment of viewers in an age where technological and numerical determinants increasingly sway creative output.
While ‘Madame Web’ might not have been the triumphant entry into superhero films Johnson or fans hoped for, her candidness and critique offer valuable insights into the complexities of modern filmmaking. As Johnson continues to explore and contribute to various cinematic genres, her journey through ‘Madame Web’ serves as a poignant chapter in her distinguished career, reminding both industry insiders and audiences of the intrinsic value of artistry and authentic storytelling in the face of commercial pressures.
