Meryl Streep has offered a candid critique of modern Hollywood, suggesting that the industry’s current inclination to “Marvel-ize” characters is stripping storytelling of its necessary complexity. The acclaimed actor, who recently reunited with her The Devil Wears Prada co-stars for a long-awaited sequel, expressed that the trend of flattening characters into clear-cut heroes or villains is ultimately “so boring.”
Two decades after the original film’s release, Streep has returned to the role of the formidable Miranda Priestly. In the new sequel, audiences see a more nuanced side of the iconic editor-in-chief as she interacts with Andy Sachs, played once again by Anne Hathaway. Reflecting on the character's evolution, Streep noted that she values the layers inherent in such a portrayal.
Speaking on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show, Streep contrasted the depth of her character with the archetypal figures often found in contemporary blockbuster cinema. “I think when we tend to Marvel-ize the movies now – we got the villains and we got the good guys – and it’s so boring,” she explained. “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. So that’s what I like about this film. It’s messier.”
The sequel, which also features performances from Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, has been met with positive reception. Critics have praised the film for maintaining the sharp, stylish wit of the original while allowing its characters to inhabit a more realistic, ambiguous space. As Streep suggests, it is this willingness to embrace the “messiness” of human nature that keeps a story compelling, rather than relying on the rigid moral binaries that have become a staple of modern franchise filmmaking.
The film’s soundtrack further underscores its modern relevance, featuring new music from Lady Gaga, including her collaboration with Doechii, 'Runway'. With additional contributions from artists like Miley Cyrus, Raye, Dua Lipa, and SZA, the sequel aims to bridge the gap between classic character-driven drama and contemporary pop culture.