Brian Cox Blames Marvel and DC for Cinema’s Decline, Hails Television’s Rise
Brian Cox, the acclaimed Scottish actor known for his powerful performances on both stage and screen, has voiced his concerns about the state of cinema today, particularly its decline in the face of the rising popularity of television. Speaking at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, Cox shared his thoughts on how the film industry, once a bastion of artistic expression, has been overtaken by the grandiose, formulaic productions of Marvel, DC, and other blockbuster franchises.
Cox, who has firsthand experience with these types of films, having played William Stryker Jr. in X2: X-Men United, reflected on how the industry has shifted away from the nuanced storytelling that once defined cinema. He noted that while films like Deadpool & Wolverine are immensely popular and financially successful, they contribute to what he sees as a dilution of cinematic quality. “What’s happened is that television is doing what cinema used to do,” Cox remarked, pointing out that the originality and depth that used to be hallmarks of the big screen have migrated to television series.
The actor lamented how the cinema of his youth, with films like On the Waterfront, inspired him to pursue acting and shaped the performer he became. Yet, today’s film industry, dominated by superhero franchises, often leaves little room for the kind of character-driven narratives that once captivated audiences. He also expressed concern over the modern casting process, which, in his view, dehumanises actors, reducing them to self-tapes that are often ignored, leaving young actors in a frustrating limbo.
Cox’s critique was not limited to the film industry. He praised the television medium, especially shows like Succession, in which he starred, and Netflix’s Ripley, for allowing stories to unfold with greater depth over time. According to Cox, television has become the new home for the kind of storytelling that cinema used to offer, with the added benefit of long-form narratives that enable richer character development.
Interestingly, Brian Cox also hinted at his own future in filmmaking. He revealed that he is working on his directorial debut, describing it as “a love letter to Scotland,” showcasing his deep connection to his homeland. He spoke highly of directors like Mark Mylod, who worked on Succession, but emphasised that being a good director involves relinquishing control and trusting the expertise of one’s team. “Control is the death of any art form,” Cox said, advocating for a more collaborative approach to filmmaking where creativity can flow freely.
This passionate discussion about the evolving landscape of cinema and television was part of a panel at the festival, moderated by Rowan Woods, director of the Edinburgh TV Festival. Cox was joined by industry professionals, including producer Afolabi Kuti and director Nina Conti, who shared insights on transitioning from live performance and television to filmmaking.
Edinburgh International Film Festival for more details on the event and other insightful discussions.
