Watch Heroes Manufactured

Heroes Manufactured is a 2016 documentary directed by Yaron Betan that focuses on the world of comic book creators and their impact on pop culture. The film interviews several veteran artists and writers in the industry, such as Neal Adams, Steve Niles, and Joe Quesada, as well as newcomers like Vitaly S. Alexius, to explore their personal journeys, the challenges they face, and the significance of comic books in today's society.

The film starts out by examining how comic books have evolved over the past few decades, from a medium that catered only to children to one that is now a multi-billion dollar industry that appeals to readers of all ages. Neal Adams, who has been in the industry for over 50 years, recalls a time when comics were seen as a disposable form of entertainment, but he believes that they now have a more permanent place in society. According to him, "Comics are the only form of literature that will never go away. They're going to be here forever."

The documentary then delves into the personal journeys of the creators themselves. Gillian Anderson, the actress known for her role in the TV series "The X-Files," talks about how comics have influenced her life, while Alexius shares how he went from being an engineer to a successful comic book artist. Niles, who wrote the popular horror comic "30 Days of Night," discusses how he got into the industry and how he deals with the pressure of creating stories that resonate with readers.

Throughout the film, the creators discuss the challenges they face in the industry, such as the pressure to constantly innovate, the difficulty of breaking into the industry, and the struggle to make a living. They also acknowledge that the rise of digital media has made it harder for them to sell physical copies of their comics. Adams remarks that "We're in a new world now, and those of us who don't learn to adjust will find ourselves becoming obsolete."

Despite these challenges, the creators remain optimistic about the future of the industry. They believe that comics have the power to inspire and educate people in a way that other media cannot. Quesada, the editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics, believes that "Comics are the greatest educational tool there is. They teach kids how to read, how to think outside of the box, and how to problem-solve."

In addition to exploring the personal journeys of the creators, the film also examines the impact that comics have had on popular culture. The creators discuss how superhero movies like the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the Dark Knight Trilogy have brought comic book characters to a wider audience and have inspired a new generation of fans. They also touch on how comic books have influenced music, fashion, and other areas of pop culture. Adams notes that "We've gone from being the lowest rung on the ladder to being the driving force behind pop culture."

Overall, Heroes Manufactured is a fascinating look at the world of comic book creators and the impact that they have on society. Through interviews with both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming artists, the film offers a comprehensive overview of the industry and its history, while also exploring the personal journeys of the people behind the comics. Whether you're a fan of comic books or just interested in the creative process, Heroes Manufactured is definitely worth checking out.

Heroes Manufactured is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.