The Marvels: When the Villain is the Hero of Their Own Story

I could say so much about The Marvels: how I could watch Iman Vellani (Ms. Marvel) forever; how Brie Larson (Captain Marvel) lets emotions leak past her “I’m fine” face; and how Teyonah Parris (Monica Rambeau/Spectrum?) perfectly blends childhood betrayal and performing her duty even if- and especially when- they conflict.

Maybe one day, I will share some critique of the film, but today is not that day. Continue reading The Marvels: When the Villain is the Hero of Their Own Story

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How “The Bad Guys” Teach Kids Empathy

Up until this point, villains had been pretty straightforward for him: the evil stepmother in “Cinderella,” Cruella DeVille and her penchant for puppy coats, and the mean guy Gaston. They’re all marked as “the bad guys” from the start, and we aren’t meant to empathize with them. So I found it very exciting to discuss how someone can be labeled “bad” and turned into a villain, even with no control.  Continue reading How “The Bad Guys” Teach Kids Empathy