Nicolas Cage compares MCU to a ‘glorified WWE’

Actor Nicolas Cage has criticized the direction of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), comparing the franchise to a ‘well-funded and glorified WWE’ during a panel at Fan Expo Dallas. Cage noted that the series increasingly prioritizes massive fight sequences and spectacle over deep storytelling.

Cage remarked that seeing ‘50-plus, otherwise intelligent, remarkably gifted thespians’ wearing ‘ridiculous outfits’ to engage in combat feels reminiscent of professional wrestling. He clarified that his comments were made ‘with love,’ suggesting his critique stems from an appreciation for the talent involved rather than a total rejection of the genre.

The remarks come amid discussions regarding the MCU’s reliance on visual effects and large-scale crossovers, such as the upcoming ‘Avengers: Doomsday.’ Cage, who has portrayed Marvel characters like Ghost Rider and Spider-Man Noir, recently starred in the series ‘Spider-Noir,’ a project distinct from the main MCU continuity.