Review: A Hulk-sized issue

Patrick Daniel, Staff Writer & Artist

“She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” has garnered controversy from Marvel fans with its feminist overtones and lack of any serious themes. (Art by Christopher Daniel)

Disney’s new Marvel Studios outing in phase four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” has seen controversy since the first episode aired on Aug. 18. The show has elements of social commentary as well as being very entertaining. 

One of the main themes the show tackles is feminist issues. This has sparked outrage among certain fans who believe this is a case of virtue signaling. It often seems that women face hardships for simply existing. 

Representation matters in the media for many people because they can see themselves in these characters. “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” is a great example of this, just ask GHC student Samantha Johnson. “I think it’s cool that a woman is the main character,” Johnson said.

“She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” is a good addition to the other female-led Marvel projects such as “Black Widow,” “Captain Marvel” and “Wandavision.” For over a decade, men have dominated the lead role in most MCU projects. It is to be hoped that “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” will be successful and continue the trend of female-led MCU projects.

However, some fans are less than enamored by the feminist views of the show. 

As Youtuber Critical Drinker says, “Lame attempts at witty humor and an extra large helping of complaints about how generally awful and stupid men are.” First, wit is subjective and second, the show has very few negative references about men.

On the other hand, others like GHC Procurement Manager Kyle Wheeless said, “I think it’s a step in the right direction for Marvel and helps boost character development for Jennifer Walters.”

When not a superhero in the form of She-Hulk, main character Jennifer Walters is an accomplished attorney which lends this series a relatability factor. The many pop culture references and women’s important role in it, such as her usage of the in-universe dating app Matcher, shows that society has unrealistic beauty standards for women, which is inherently misogynistic. 

Jennifer Walters’ dual identity as an attorney and superhero while facing the tribulations of patriarchal society sends the message that no matter how much success a woman achieves, she still endures trials for just being a woman.

The current trend in entertainment media such as books, movies and television to promote inclusivity for minority and women’s stories is valuable because it enriches our society. Marvel Studios is to be applauded for continuing with their newest project “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.” It’s long past due that everyone sees a glimpse of themselves with the entertainment we regularly consume.