Streep disses 'marvel-ized' cinema, demands messier stories
Meryl Streep is calling out the cinematic landscape, arguing that Hollywood’s relentless pursuit of blockbuster formulas—specifically the predictable ‘heroes vs. villains’ narrative—is creatively bankrupt.
A dose of reality, courtesy of a legend
Speaking with Hits Radio, the acting icon expressed her frustration with what she describes as a “Marvel-ized” approach to storytelling. “We get the villains, we get the good guys, and it’s so boring,” Streep bluntly stated. She’s clearly yearning for a return to character complexity, a willingness to embrace ambiguity and, frankly, a little messiness.
The sentiment comes as The Devil Wears Prada 2, a long-awaited sequel, attempts to recapture the sharp wit and nuanced drama of the original. With a cast including Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci, the film is banking on nostalgia and a return to the world of high-fashion journalism—a world that, according to Streep, needs a serious shake-up.
The film's producers wisely opted for a return to the original cast, recognizing that the core appeal of the first installment lay in the relationships between these complex characters. But the story itself, set against the rapidly evolving world of fashion news, promises a departure. Streep herself has indicated a move toward “blurred lines” between good and evil, highlighting a desire for a more realistic and engaging portrayal of human behavior.
Beyond the binary
“What’s really interesting about life is that some of the heroes are flawed, and some of the villains are human and interesting, and have their own strengths,” Streep elaborated. “That’s what I like about [The Devil Wears Prada 2]. It’s messier.” The deliberate eschewal of simplistic morality – a conscious decision, she suggests – elevates the narrative beyond mere spectacle. It’s a subtle, but powerful, critique of the cinematic trends dominating the industry.
The film premiered on May 1, 2026, receiving a 7/10 review. Critics noted the familiar world of New York high fashion, but also acknowledged a shift in character dynamics. The Devil Wears Prada 2 isn’t attempting a carbon copy of the original; it’s evolving – and, according to Streep, that’s precisely where the entertainment lies. Michael Cripe, IGN's freelance writer, offers a more nuanced perspective, highlighting the film's embrace of moral grey areas.