Jowett, L., Abbott, S. and Calvert, B. (2015) ‘A part of something bigger’: a roundtable discussion of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., transmedia television, and the Joss Whedon brand. In: PopMatters Media (ed.) Joss Whedon: the Complete Companion. Revised and updated ed. London: Titan Books. pp. 421-430.
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Abstract:
A conversation between the three authors examines key points of convergence between classic Whedon television and his work on Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Looking particularly at the idea of Whedon as brand, this article examines his development as showrunner and creator of ensemble writing/directing teams. Much current criticism of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. attempts to separate it from Whedon's body of work; however, here it is seen as a show that brings together two distinct franchises or labels - Whedon and Marvel. The show includes some key Whedonesque elements that are worth some comment, especially in its central creation of a team of disparate individuals who work together for a common goal (familiar from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, Dollhouse, Marvel's Avengers). Additionally, ways in which Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. can be defined as 'quality', 'cult' and/or 'mainstream' television, and how it interacts with the Marvel film franchise (commented on by Joseph Oldham, CST Online, 27 June 2014) are discussed. The article also explores how the show brings together a variety of genres/ tones/ modes (e.g. realism and fantasy), and how it makes use of a strong ensemble cast. The conversation examines the ever-changing nature of the notion of the auteur via this series in relation to Whedon the man, ensemble creative team, and brand.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Joss Whedon, Marvel, television, auteur, transmedia, genre, cult television
Subjects:
Creators:
Jowett, L., Abbott, S. and Calvert, B.
Editors:
PopMatters Media
Publisher:
Titan Books
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Research Centre > Centre for Critical and Creative Writing
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Education & Humanities > English and Creative Writing
Faculties > Faculty of Education & Humanities > English and Creative Writing
Research Centres > Centre for Critical and Creative Writing
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Education & Humanities > English and Creative Writing
Faculties > Faculty of Education & Humanities > English and Creative Writing
Research Centres > Centre for Critical and Creative Writing
Date:
24 April 2015
Date Type:
Publication
Page Range:
pp. 421-430
Title of Book:
Joss Whedon: the Complete Companion
Series Name:
PopMatters Books Series
Place of Publication:
London
Number of Pages:
512
Language:
English
ISBN:
9781783293599
Media of Output:
Print
Status:
Published / Disseminated
Refereed:
No
Related URLs:
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