Let's acknowledge the undeniable reality of superhero fatigue. The recurring theme of exceptional individuals from the United States stepping in to rescue the world from catastrophic, global-scale events has become a cliché in many Hollywood fantasy films. However, actor Xolo Maridueña is convinced that his new movie, 'Blue Beetle', featuring DC's inaugural Latino superhero as the central character, has managed to deviate from this trend.
During an exclusive interview with Gulf News conducted before the onset of the Hollywood writers and actors strikes, the star of 'Cobra Kai' asserts that 'Blue Beetle' is likely to stand as Hollywood's most relatable superhero film and is poised to redefine established superhero narratives.
"Right from the start, we aimed to ensure that our hero isn't destined to rescue the world from an alien explosion or prevent a planet-destroying bomb. That's often the aspect that lacks relatability, and I wanted to steer clear of that approach," Maridueña shared.
Directed by Puerto Rican filmmaker Ángel Manuel Soto and scripted by Mexico's Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, 'Blue Beetle' delves into the story of an endearing Latino family grappling with a daunting amount of debt. The film revolves around Jaime Reyes (portrayed by Maridueña), whose family faces the imminent risk of losing their home while he has recently graduated from a law school, only to be confronted by a staggering load of debt.
"With Jaime's family, the challenges he confronts, such as his family's struggle to retain their home or dealing with certain family members' health issues, resonate on a day-to-day basis, unlike the scenario of an alien invasion," Maridueña emphasized. He humorously added that at times, an extraterrestrial incursion might even be preferable to being "swamped with college debt."
"And this is what grounded the story of 'Blue Beetle' from the very beginning."
The narrative follows the sincere journey of Jaime Reyes, who stumbles upon a stolen scarab concealed in a fast-food box, subsequently discovering a beetle possessing a consciousness of its own. This revelation forms the core of this fantastical tale. Jaime suddenly acquires the ability to fly, heal, and create weaponry. Remarkably, his family is privy to his transformation and isn't kept in the dark.
This venture brought a series of groundbreaking moments for both the actor and the production team. Besides 'Blue Beetle' serving as DC Studios' inaugural superhero in the revamped cinematic universe overseen by James Gunn, the film stands out for its authentic casting and Latino representation.
"My greatest excitement was sharing this film with my own family because they found the story deeply resonating... To see family members who resembled them, spoke like them was a significant aspect... The fact that Jaime's powers manifest in front of his family transcended ethnicity. Jaime doesn't possess a hidden alter ego. His parents are part of the experience alongside him."
What truly gratified him was that the representation in the film wasn't superficial but rooted in substance.
"Beyond just on-screen representation, having a director and writer who are Latino ensured that authenticity was genuinely ingrained... It doesn't seem contrived or forced. They are drawing from their personal experiences... People who can authentically narrate the stories are being given the microphone and the camera."
So, did the 22-year-old actor audition for this coveted role? Maridueña, renowned for his portrayal of the emerging karate champion in the immensely enjoyable 'Cobra Kai', believes that his family and the dynamics he shared with them played a pivotal role in securing the part.
"Even before landing the project, I had the wonderful chance to meet the director at a dinner, and he remembered the love and essence I shared with my family back then... What I find appealing about 'Blue Beetle' is that he's a young individual within his family... And he's truly an unwilling superhero. Portraying him was deeply gratifying."
The movie, which garnered favorable reviews, also marks a significant victory for representation and diversity within Hollywood.
"In 'Cobra Kai', my character was Ecuadorian, and the precision of depicting my character as Ecuadorian emphasized that not all Latinos are Mexican... Specificity holds importance. Seeing oneself on the screen and visibility are agents of real change and influence. I am grateful for the opportunity to embody roles that uplift and empower. For minority groups, their struggles and challenges often take the spotlight. At times, it's essential to recount stories of triumph and positivity."