The Marvel Cinematic Universe (or MCU to the fandom) is iconic and beloved by fans.
Unlike many in the genre, Marvel’s focus is on the individual not just the power, tempering explosions and action with compelling, visceral storytelling. They say a picture paints a thousand words and Marvel’s taken the idea to heart, adding insane amounts of detail to every element captured on screen.
If you’ve ever wondered just how much time, energy and effort goes into a Marvel movie, you’re going to want to head to Brisbane ASAP. Right now, Brisbane is playing host to a movie lover’s paradise.
Image © MARVEL
In ‘Marvel: Creating The Cinematic Universe’, visitors are able to get up close and personal with the behind the scenes magic that goes into making cinematic blockbusters. For the first time in Australia, we’re able to explore the concept art, planning stages and finished props from the MCU.
Without the gunfire and action, you can see just how detailed each second of screen time is, right down to the near invisible patterning of fabrics. In all the excitement of the movies, it’s easy to overlook the exquisite detail being created by a host of costumers, artists and set designers.
Image © MARVEL
The costumes of the MCU are stunning, granting glimpses into the character’s origins, affiliations and personality – all in the span of an audience’s glance. And yet, beneath the surface, there’s an even more impressive wealth of information to be explored.
Here, we’re able to savour all those tiny elements woven subtly into the character’s story. Loki, for example, has representations of his mythological counterpart’s children etched into pieces of his costuming; an early nod to the upcoming 'Ragnarok'.
Image © MARVEL
The weapons too, reveal a lot about their owners. There’s a level of detail here that’s staggering to behold and impossible to take in during an action sequence. Hela’s sword is heavyset, functional, but decorated with swirls and subtle touches of green – a link to her mythological father, perhaps?
The Chitauri weapons are sleek, minimalist – designed for practicality rather than visual appeal. And Bucky’s guns? Well, they’re designed to be lethal. And intimidating to behold.
If you’re a cosplayer, you’re gonna want to spend a day here planning your next costume. And if you’re not a cosplayer, you’re probably going to want to try it after seeing these costumes. There’s also some sneaky peeks into the upcoming 'Thor: Ragnarok' for those desperate to know what’s coming next for the gods of thunder and lies.
And while you can’t try and prove your worth with Mjollnir or borrow Loki’s sceptre to convince your boss to sign off on that raise, there’s a wealth of fun to be had.
Image © MARVEL
There are comics to read and to create. You can try your hand at bringing animated characters to life (and without having to wear the silly green suit!) or prep the sounds of battle in an excerpt of 'Thor: The Dark World'. All the while, there’s plenty of behind-the-scenes conversations about how the iconic moments of the movies were brought to life.
If you’re looking for some movie magic in the CBD, this is a must-see. Marvel: Creating The Cinematic Universe is at GOMA in Brisbane until 3 September, 2017.
Image © MARVEL
Word to the wise. Plan to spend the day. This isn’t the sort of exhibit you’re gonna speed through.
★★★★★
