Martin Scorsese's criticisms of Marvel movie have had a ripple effect on the film industry, with everyone chiming in with their thoughts. The legendary director behind The Irishman has since softened his comments, but many haven't taken kindly to his suggestion that superhero films are "not cinema." Disney CEO Bob Iger has already defended the MCU against Scorsese before, and in an interview with BBC Radio 4 he suggested perhaps the director hasn't even seen what he's criticizing to begin with,
"I think Martin Scorsese is a great filmmaker. I hope he hears this. I don't have a relationship with him, but it doesn't matter, I admire him immensely," he explained. "I think he has made some great films. I look back and think of Goodfellas and Raging Bull to name just a few, Taxi Driver. Just a phenomenal filmmaker. And I think I would debate him on this subject. First of all, Marvel is making movies—they are movies, that's what Martin Scorsese makes—and they are good movies."
Echoing what he said when asked about Scorsese comparing Marvel movies to theme park attractions, Iger reiterated that audiences continue to respond positively to these films. "These are talented, talented people that are putting their hard work and talent into making films that entertain people in theaters around the world," he added. "They have a good two-hour experience. They come out feeling happy or better about themselves."
From there, Iger said he firmly believes that Scorsese hasn't seen any of these movies. "I don't think he's ever seen a Marvel film," he said. "Anyone who has seen a Marvel film could not in all truth make that statement." Iger made it clear, however, that he did not want to burn any bridges. "I'd like to have a glass of wine with him. I like Martin Scorsese," he continued. "[I'm] looking forward to talking with him."
During the interview with BBC, Iger also spoke about the accusations that Disney has made with him as CEO. He also said he thinks Disney faltered when it came to handling Star Wars, releasing too many films over a short period of time. "I have not said they were disappointing in any way," he said. "I just think that there's something so special about a Star Wars film, and less is more."
Watch the full clip from Iger's BBC interview above.
