Recognition of the Value of Independent Projects
Skillful, independent content creators in the superhero genre change the greater genre to pass those important tests. Douglas Schuler, writer for the Public Sphere Project, stated that to improve media diversity, “one of the most direct ways is to create and support independent media.”[1] The support of independent media drives changes both in what media the public sees, and the direction that corporate media-creators will take their newer projects. Applied to the superhero genre, support of diverse, independent superhero fiction will lead to greater diversity both in the overall superhero genre and in the next Marvel and DC movies.
[1] Douglas Schuler, “Media Diversity,” Public Sphere Project, accessed April 29, 2018, http://www.publicsphereproject.org/content/media-diversity.
Addressing Worries About the Weakness of Independent Superhero Fiction
Independent comic artist Rich Johnson argues the impotence of independent superhero fiction in both becoming popular and influencing trends in the greater superhero genre. His main point is to identify established DC and Marvel superheroes as not just superheroes, but powerful cultural myths so ingrained in our culture as to be beyond competition.[1] Superman will stay a cultural icon for a long time, but the narratives he is written into can change. Independent works can influence that narrative and shape it towards greater representation of progressive values. In addition, Worm is an example that strong, independent superhero fiction can succeed. By the end of Worm, the viewership had increased to 200,000.[2] In 2014, McCrae transitioned to writing as his sole source of income.[3] Worm has been a success for McCrae and stands as an example that strong, independent superhero fiction can be successful.
[1] Rich Johnson, “To My Fellow Indie Creators: Why Are You Still Making Superhero Comics?” Bleeding Cool, published February 9, 2015; accessed April 29, 2018, https://www.bleedingcool.com/2015/02/08/to-my-fellow-indie-creators-why-are-you-still-making-superhero-comics/.
[2] John McCrae, “Thoughts: A Reflection on growth over two years.” Pig’s Pen (blog), published June 26, 2013; accessed April 29, 2018, https://wildbow.wordpress.com/2013/06/26/thoughts-a-reflection-on-growth-over-two-years/.
[3] John McCrae, “Ward,” (WordPress, 2017): F.A.Q., https://www.parahumans.net/f-a-q/.