Why Does Every Movie Feel Like the MCU?

In this video essay, we dive deep into what went wrong with the MCU and how its formulaic success reshaped modern cinema. From the groundbreaking introduction of a shared universe to the over-saturation of sequels, spin-offs, and multiverses, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has left an undeniable mark on Hollywood—but is it for the better? We explore how the MCU's influence has led to a decline in originality across blockbusters, with non-MCU films like Fast & Furious and Free Guy feeling like carbon copies of Marvel's blueprint. Join us as we trace the roots of this phenomenon, starting with proto-MCU films like The Mummy and Pirates of the Caribbean.