Revolutionizing Art Department Gender Equality: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 & Superman: Legacy Set the Stage

Summary

Representation is important behind the camera to bring authenticity and depth to superhero stories, allowing diverse voices to shape the narrative.

The inclusion of diverse voices in the art department of major blockbusters, such as Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, not only empowers women but also advances equality within the industry. The experience of production designer Beth Mickle serves as proof of this.

The presence of characters like Mantis, Gamora, and Nebula in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 underscores the significance of sharing distinctive and varied narratives that connect with global audiences.

Production Designer Beth Mickle highlights the significance of gender equality in both the front and back end of the camera on notable projects like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Superman: Legacy. Over the past decade, Hollywood has made significant progress in promoting diversity, showcasing more LGBTQ and BIPOC narratives on both the big and small screen. This progress also extends to the fight for representation behind the scenes, with more women and BIPOC creators finally telling their own stories and bringing to life the stories they have always wanted to see. Screen Rant had the opportunity to interview Mickle during San Diego Comic-Con, where she delved into her collaboration with director James Gunn on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, The Suicide Squad, and the highly anticipated Superman: Legacy. Notably, Mickle shared that half of the art department for both Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Superman: Legacy is comprised of women. See Mickle's complete statement below.

It has been a tremendous honor and the greatest privilege of my career to be included in this field. However, I must mention that several years ago, it was uncommon to find women responsible for production designing superhero and large-scale movies. When I took on the task of designing Suicide Squad, I became only the second woman in the United States to have accomplished such a feat. The immense responsibility and pressure of the role were evident during that time, and still resonate with me. It is vital not only to myself but also to my department and other female production designers that these films succeed. This success will allow studios to have confidence and trust in us to handle such projects.

Thankfully, there has been a noticeable shift in recent years. Approximately one-third of the major blockbuster movies released have had female production designers attached to them. As someone who understands the significance and magnitude of this position, I prioritize the hiring of women and promoting diversity within the art department. I take immense pride in sharing that on projects like Guardians of the Galaxy and Superman, half of the art department consisted of talented women. It is truly gratifying to witness positive and substantial changes taking place behind the camera as well.

Why Representation Is Important Behind The Camera & How Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Shows That

Superhero stories from both Marvel and DC have dominated the box office and television screens. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in stories featuring women, such as The Marvels, Harley Quinn, and WandaVision, as well as BIPOC heroes like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Ms. Marvel, and Black Panther. While it is crucial to have these diverse stories and characters on screen, it is equally important to ensure that these voices are also represented in various behind-the-scenes roles.

When a writer or director tells their own stories or incorporates their personal experiences into the narrative, it brings an authentic touch to the series or movie. This representation becomes an integral part of the storytelling, rather than simply featuring a token character in a larger cast. Recognizing the significance of representation and creating a space where everyone is welcome to contribute helps in crafting stories that resonate with and are beloved by people worldwide.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 delves into the personal struggles faced by Peter and Rocket, while also exploring the compelling narratives of Mantis, Gamora, and Nebula. These characters have experienced significant growth and transformation since their initial introduction, and now they must navigate their own paths in the world, whether as part of the Guardians or not. By ensuring diversity across all aspects of filmmaking, particularly in major blockbusters like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we create opportunities for previously marginalized voices to finally share their long-overdue stories.