Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Unlike some of the other major characters that can firmly be termed as superheroes,Watchmenhave been utterly controversial figures, right from when DC first introduced them, back in 1986. Major characters such as Ozymandias and Doctor Manhattan were initially integrated in DC’s primary universe via 2017’sDoomsday Clock,which saw the two featured alongside iconic figures such as Batman, Superman, and the Joker.
However, a range of prominent narratives in the past have led toWatchmenoften being accused of being fascist, which in itself was a major plot point that DC Comics dealt with in the 1980s. While the likes of Rorschach, Doctor Manhattan, and The Comedian have often engaged in questionable acts, Alan Moore, back in 1987, debunked the common notion, claiming that none of his characters were fascist.
Moore claimed that while theWatchmen’sactions have been questionable to say the least, multiple times, they act out not because of fascism. Instead, the characters are simply seldom in control of their world, which leads to them committing major atrocities that have led to the commonly-aired criticism.
Alan Moore once swore that none of hisWatchmencharacters are fascist
The argument that theWatchmen’santi-heroes are fascists originated also because when the characters were first introduced, DC and Marvel both seemed to be toying with the notion of superheroes emerging as fascist figures. In comic arcs such asBatman: The Dark Knight ReturnsandMarvel’s Squadron Supreme,superheroes were seen converting their nations into totalitarian states because they thought it was the best way to protect it.
Even DC Legend Alan Moore, Who Typically Hates Comic Book Shows and Movies, Loves One DCAU Episode With an 8.6 IMDb Rating
That, combined with the fact that severalWatchmenprotagonists engaged in utterly questionable acts further spurred the notion. Doctor Manhattan was seen killing Vietnamese soldiers and innocent people, Rorschach often used torture and pain as an investigation technique, and the Comedian also hadhis fair share of utterly violent acts.
This, however, according toAlan Moore, was not down to fascism:
Rorschach’s not a fascist; he’s a nutcase. The Comedian’s not a fascist; he’s a psychopath. Dr. Manhattan’s not a fascist; he’s a space cadet. They’re not fascists. They’re not in control of their world.
Hence, Moore explained, quite funnily, that his characters were not fascist figures, despite the kind of acts that they have been seen committing. Instead, theWatchmenare simply do not have the kind of control over their world some of the other major DC superheroes exert, which begs the question: Are they even superheroes?
Watchmenpresents an alternate take on superheroes, more akin toThe Boys
There have been several narrations that have focused on the negatives of superheroes, and what happens when the world, and its people, begin to depend on figures that are almost revered by human beings. WhileThe Boyspresents superheroes who are anything but,Watchmenpresents a similar take, albeit amongst well-intentioned beings who actuallywish to protect their world.
“I wanted to give her a big kiss”: Julianne Moore Was Head Over Heels for Sydney Sweeney as Euphoria Star Reminded Her of Young Self
However, the likes of Doctor Manhattan, Rorschach, Captain Metropolis, and a range of other superheroes featured inWatchmen,existed in a darker world, and often found themselves unable to save it. Moore himself explained:
To show how superheroes could deform the world just by being there, not that they’d have to take it over, just their presence there would make the difference. [T]he atom bomb doesn’t take over the world, by being there it changes everything.
This led to morally questionable superheroes who were too engrossed in doing their best, despite their obvious shortcomings, than focusing on power and influence, or emerging as fascist figures.
2009’sWatchmenis available to watch on Amazon Prime.
Rishabh Bhatnagar
Editor/Reviewer
Articles Published :315
Rishabh Bhatnagar is an Entertainment and pop culture journalist/editor with Fandom Wire. He has more than 6 years of experience working for multiple major platforms and is himself an avid consumer of worthwhile content. A natural storyteller, Rishabh has a unique way with words and is always looking to improve, as a storyteller, writer, and a journalist.
More from Rishabh Bhatnagar
5 Movies from Tom Hanks That He Most Probably Wants You to Forget
“It shows how f-cked up the Sopranos are”: ‘The Many Saints of Newark’ Left Michael Imperioli Depressed Over a Sad Realization About Christopher
“He was very creepy”: We All Felt Bad For This Guy From The Big Bang Theory and Now He is Getting His Own Jim Parsons Less Spin Off
Recommended
“Just like a horse”: Aubrey Plaza, Amy Poehler Agree Rihanna’s Eyes Are on the Side of Her Head
2 Reasons Why the Helldivers 2 x Halo ODST Warbond Isn’t Perfect
Who Is Jasveen Sangha: Ketamine Queen Connected to Matthew Perry’s Death
Sean McLaughlin’s Dad Just Became the Unlikely Villain (or Hero) of ‘Bachelor in Paradise’
Madison Beer’s Boyfriend: Who Is She Dating?
Helldivers 2 X Halo ODST Legendary Warbond Crossover: Complete Rundown
Alan MooreWatchmen
