#77 - Diversity and Representation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Michelle Reyes

Welcome to a new episode of The Couch. Today I’m here with my friend and friend of the show, Michelle Reyes! Michelle is a second-generation Indian American author, speaker, and activist. She’s the vice president of the Asian American Christian Collaborative and the co-executive director at Pax. She’s also co-planted Hope Community Church in Austin with her husband, and as you’ll figure out quickly, she’s a huge fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Once again, Michelle and I had a blast talking some of our favorite movies and shows, and once again, I learned so much from a short conversation. I just know you’re going to learn something and have fun, too. In this episode, we’re talking about the state of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We are talking about the recent additions to the MCU, both movies and series; and we’re talking about what’s coming in the next several months. We also look at representation in Marvel movies and series—what we’ve observed and what we’re hoping for in future stories. And of course, because this is The Couch, where rabbit trails and side notes are always welcome, we also get into novels perfect for vacation reading and library fines. I’m glad you’re here, friends. Let’s get started! MENTIONED IN THE SHOW: Upcoming Marvel series and movies The Bechdel test The Duvernay test Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (trailer) We Are Lady Parts Crazy Rich Asians The Eternals (trailer) NOT-SO-GUILTY PLEASURES: Library fines Folklorn by Angela Mi Young Hur, The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi, and A Thousand Beginnings and Endings by Ellen Oh   DON’T FORGET: Join The Couch on Facebook! It’s so much fun! Find Michelle on Instagram at @michelleamireyes, on Twitter at @drmichellereyes, or on her website. and sign up for her weekly book-ish newsletter too. You can find me on Instagram at @marycarver or at marycarver.com. Welcome to The Couch! This post includes affiliate links. This means that if you click and purchase, I might receive a small commission at no extra charge to you.