DC's newest project includes the works of John Ridley, an Oscar-winning screenwriter who has created "The Other History of DC Comics" alongside the comic company. Going deeper into the DC Universe, Ridley follows the stories of characters such as John Stewart, Extraño, Vixen, Supergirl, Katana and Renee Montoya. The similarity that all of these characters share is that they are all a members of underrepresented groups in society that have been marginalized. The concept of The Other History of DC Comics is the spotlight on personal stories that exist behind the masks and costume, diving deeper into societal issues closer to reality.
In a press conference, Ridley states ""I could not be more excited by the opportunity to excavate the canon of the DC Universe through a vast array of characters who’ve earned their seat at the table, I’m very impressed with DC’s commitment to making their history as reverent and urgent as it is engaging and entertaining for all its many fans." This would not be the screenwriter's first time tapping into media surrounding societal minorities. He has previously written a comic entitled 'The American Way' for DC Comics as well. The story was about a black superhero that had been a part of a super-group shadowed by the government in the 60s. The Other History of DC Comics is not focused on saving the world from physical dangers, but instead encourages people to instill strength in who they are.
Marginalized Superhero Stories
John Ridley's Latest Creation is 'The Other History of DC Comics'
Trend Themes
1. Marginalized Superhero Representation - Opportunities exist for creating more diverse and complex superhero stories that highlight underrepresented groups and their experiences.
2. Intersectional Storytelling - There is a growing trend of exploring multiple marginalized identities and how they intersect in media, such as in The Other History of DC Comics.
3. Realistic Social Commentary - There is an opportunity for media to use superhero stories to tackle real-world societal issues and address them in a meaningful way, like in The Other History of DC Comics.
Industry Implications
1. Comic Book Industry - The comic book industry can push for more inclusive and representative storytelling through characters and themes in order to attract a wider and more diverse audience.
2. Film and Television Industry - There is potential for film and television to follow DC's lead and tell more diverse and complex superhero stories in order to attract wider audiences and promote inclusivity.
3. Publishing Industry - There is a growing need for literature that explores intersectional identities and realistic social commentary, such as what is being done in The Other History of DC Comics, which can be met by the publishing industry.