‘Blue Beetle’ Interview with Director Angel Manuel Soto: «Ánimo»
One of the movie's most profound messages is that hardly anyone truly has it all figured out
Blue Beetle arrived in theaters on August 18 featuring the first Latino superhero, making it the latest addition to DC’s list of superheroes on the big screen. Directed by Angel Manuel Soto, the film stars Xolo Maridueña, Bruna Marquezine, George Lopez, Belissa Escobedo, Raoul Trujillo, and Susan Sarandon.
Who is Blue Beetle?
According to EL PAÍS, Blue Beetle is the adopted name of three heroes with supernatural abilities who have appeared in comics from various publishers since 1939. The original Blue Beetle made its debut in the first issue of Mystery Men Comics, published by Fox Comics.
Over the next decade, the character became quite popular, appearing in various comics, a comic strip, and a radio serial. However, like many superheroes of the time, his popularity declined in the 1950s, leading several publishers to go bankrupt. For example, Fox Comics sold the printing rights of some Blue Beetle stories to Charlton Comics, which then produced its own comics featuring the character.
Movie Synopsis
Jaime Reyes is in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology called the Scarab. When the Scarab chooses Jaime as a symbiotic host, it grants him an armor with extraordinary and unpredictable powers.
Interview With LOS40
Blue Beetle is a film primarily aimed at the Latino community, as it introduces the first Latino superhero, specifically of Mexican origin. Director Angel Manuel Soto emphasized the importance of cultural identity to him, something he incorporated into the film. He confessed that he made a movie he himself would have wanted to watch –a superhero embodying his likeness and roots.
Through a beautiful message, Soto urges us to avoid succumbing to imposter syndrome and to never underestimate our capabilities. The word ‘Ánimo’ (which translates to ‘Keep going’ or ‘Cheer up’) accompanies us throughout the entire film, serving as a constant reminder to forge ahead. This sentiment resonates deeply with communities like the Latino community, who constantly push themselves to overcome challenges despite adversity.
Additionally, the film highlights the value of teamwork and how burdens become lighter with the support of others. One of the movie’s most profound messages is that hardly anyone truly has it all figured out. This notion often aligns with the experience of teenagers navigating life’s uncertainties, and that sentiment often persists into adulthood. What truly matters is embracing the journey and cherishing those who accompany us along the way.
