The release and relevance of Marvel’s Black Widow

The recent release of “Black Widow” had Marvel fans on the edge of their seats as a prequel in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). At the movie’s beginning, the narrator recounts Natasha Romanoff’s childhood trauma and separation from her family. This setup provides historical context and builds a framework for who Natasha is, and explores the events that helped mold her in relation to her family. It is important to recognize Natasha’s independence and persevering nature as an immigrant moving to America as she finds her way in society. Throughout the movie, Natasha and her family are able to rebuild the confidence and trust that was lost between them.

The next scene of the movie reveals Natasha hiding from the government, separated from the Avengers, whom she considers her real family. While Natasha is on the run from the government, she stumbles upon her sister, Yelena, from whom she has been separated for two decades. They are hesitant to rekindle their relationship, but unexpectedly find it easy to make up for the lost time. Natasha and Yelena become an undeniable dynamic duo that dominates the movie. They eventually confide in each other over traumatic childhood experiences, and they keep a low profile.

As the events unfold, Natasha and Yelena recognize their combat skills are equally matched. At this point, Yelena has just broken free from the control of the Red Room of her past. Both her and Natasha have shown a softer and vulnerable side to their characters.

“Black Widow” will continue to be relevant in Marvel Comics because Natasha has played a major role in the universe, even after her death in the resolution of “Avengers: Endgame.” After Natasha and her family triumph over the enemy at the end of “Black Widow” and the credits roll, time jumps ahead and the audience sees Yelena standing over Natasha’s grave. She is joined by Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, a highly skillful combatant, who appears to have recruited her own team of anti-heroes. Contessa approaches Yelena and shows her a photo of Clint Barton, Natasha’s best friend and fellow Avenger. Contessa claims he is responsible for Natasha’s death. Marvel fans are ultimately shocked at this possible foreshadowing and are anxious to see how this new narrative is going to change the rest of the MCU storyline. Fans are asking: will Natasha’s legacy be avenged by her sister?