Simu Liu defends superhero movies as he speaks out against increasing backlash from critics and audiences, stating that, despite changing opinions, the genre still inspires many. In a recent interview, Liu shared his perspective about the cultural value of superhero films, emphasizing their lasting impact as he prepares for his return as Shang-Chi in the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday.
Liu Responds to Criticism of Superhero Films
Simu Liu, known for starring in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, has recently observed a shift in how critics and viewers perceive superhero movies. While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and similar franchises once dominated popular culture, there is now an evident trend among some circles to criticize or dismiss the genre’s value.
Reflecting on this shift during an interview with Variety, Liu shared his candid view on the growing negativity:
“It’s kind of fashionable now to hate on it,”
Simu Liu, Actor. He acknowledged that skepticism and critical analysis are valid, noting,
“I think there are valid critiques of the way that movies are made, the way that production budgets are handled. I think that there are a lot of valid things to say.”
Simu Liu, Actor.
Despite the negative atmosphere, Liu refuses to discount the genre as a whole. He addressed the outright rejection of superhero stories, stating,
“This idea of s—ting on superhero movies as a genre? I don’t know,”
Simu Liu, Actor. He further explained his personal connection, sharing,
“I don’t know, because I am speaking as somebody who just absolutely loved watching them as a kid.”
Simu Liu, Actor.
Working on a New Marvel Project with a Star-Studded Cast
Simu Liu is currently filming Avengers: Doomsday, which will feature his character joining forces with other major Marvel heroes. Some notable cast members in this crossover include Chris Hemsworth reprising his role as Thor, Anthony Mackie returning as Captain America, Paul Rudd as Ant-Man, and Letitia Wright as Black Panther. Audiences can also look forward to Robert Downey Jr.’s return, but this time as Doctor Doom, rather than Tony Stark/Iron Man.
The filming experience has been thrilling for Liu:
“So many actors that I grew up watching, and to get to kind of play in that sandbox with them… it’s a dream come true.”
Simu Liu, Actor. Avengers: Doomsday is being filmed back-to-back with Avengers: Secret Wars, promising an even more ambitious gathering of superheroes and actors than Avengers: Endgame, including key figures from Thunderbolts and the latest Fantastic Four adaptation featuring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.
The Emotional Resonance of Superhero Stories
Simu Liu believes strongly in the positive influence superhero films can exert, particularly for people who often feel marginalized. Reflecting on his own youth, Liu explained,
“I grew up watching superhero movies and wanting to believe that the outcasts and the nerds and the weirdos could find it in themselves to have superpowers and save the day,”
Simu Liu, Actor. He emphasized the enduring appeal of these stories, stating,
“That’s what 12-year-old me clung on to. I still believe, for better or for worse, in the power of what those movies stand for today.”
Simu Liu, Actor. For Liu, superhero movies remain powerful symbols of hope and possibility, especially for fans who don’t often see themselves as traditional heroes.
A Promising Future for Marvel’s Expanding Universe
The upcoming Avengers: Doomsday is positioned to be a major event film, incorporating characters from diverse Marvel properties such as Thunderbolts, with Florence Pugh’s Yelena, Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier, Lewis Pullman’s Sentry, Wyatt Russell’s U.S. Agent, Hannah John-Kamen’s Ghost, and David Harbour’s Red Guardian. The ensemble will also include the most recent Fantastic Four team with Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the Thing.
Furthermore, the film will see the return of actors from the X-Men franchise, with Patrick Stewart as Professor X, Ian McKellen as Magneto, Rebecca Romijn as Mystique, Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler, James Marsden as Cyclops, Kelsey Grammer as Beast, and Channing Tatum as Gambit more than 25 years after the series began. The Russo brothers are directing the project, with a scheduled release in U.S. theaters on December 18, 2026.
Continued Influence of Superhero Movies
Despite facing skepticism from critics and shifting cultural tastes, Simu Liu’s passionate defense and ongoing involvement in the Marvel universe highlight the enduring appeal and emotional weight of superhero movies. As Avengers: Doomsday brings together stars and beloved characters from franchises old and new, the genre’s influence on fans—especially those who identify with its spirit of heroism for outcasts and dreamers—seems far from fading. As Liu and his peers prepare to return to theaters, the public response and box office turnout will show whether superhero films can continue to thrive amid changing expectations.
