Fans were left outraged after the mistreatment of Marvel comicbook writers was revealed, especially in light of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s continued success.
In an excellent display of investigative work, The Guardian published an article about how Marvel and DC treat their comicbook writers, especially when it comes to their work being the inspiration for movie adaptations. Journalist Sam Thielman wrote, “According to multiple sources, when a writer or artist’s work features prominently in a Marvel film, the company’s practice is to send the creator an invitation to the premiere and a cheque for $5,000.”
He continued, “Three different sources confirmed this amount to the Guardian. There’s no obligation to attend the premiere, or to use the $5,000 for travel or accommodation; sources described it as a tacit acknowledgment that compensation was due.”
Thielman goes on to report that “several sources” claimed that the writer’s compensation can vary between “ the $5,000 payment, nothing, or – very rarely – a special character contract.” One creator who received said contract expressed that it failed to encompass the success that their work brought the Marvel franchise.
They shared, “I’ve been offered a [special character contract] that was really, really terrible, but it was that or nothing. And then instead of honoring it, they send a thank you note and are like, ‘Here’s some money we don’t owe you!’ and it’s five grand.” They added, “And you’re like, ‘The movie made a billion dollars.’”
The article also drew light to an incident where comicbook writers Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting made an impromptu appearance at a premiere party for Captain America: The Winter Soldier — Theilman states that although the movie was “directly based on their comics,” they were denied entrance. Eventually, Winter Soldier actor Sebastian Stan was able to let them in.
Fans were disgusted to hear about Marvel’s treatment of these writers and many began digging up past stories of mistreatment. This included the story of Rocket Raccoon creator Bill Mantlo. Despite his character playing a pivotal role in Guardians and the Galaxy and subsequent Marvel movies, Mantlo found himself unable to afford his medical care after being involved in a hit-and-run accident.
One fan wrote, “This is literally the biggest franchise on the planet right now, @Disney should stop being greedy and properly compensate their writers and artists.”
Another tweeted, “It should be like double that at least lol. I understand these are just adaptations but if you write the story it’s based on you should get money, ESPECIALLY if you literally created the character.”
A third chimed in with, “Kinda just goes to show that just because a studio gives you good fan service doesn’t make them less of a corporate overlord. Good movies don’t equate good treatment of creatives behind the scene. It’s easy to see the flaws in a studio struggling than one giving you good content.”
This mistreatment of writers comes soon after the news that Scarlett Johansson is suing Disney for breaching her Black Widow contract.
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