Jessica Jones is not just a girl who happens to be a superhero. And the show "Marvel's Jessica Jones" reflects the human condition in a way that is not seen from a woman's perspective, according to showrunner and executive producer Melissa Rosenberg. The report below uses information from a new YouTube video constructed by Netflix about the show.
Power and control
Coming up on its second season, "Marvel's Jessica Jones" has proven to have a loyal following, with many praising the cast for bringing out a unique superhero into the mix.
Netflix, an on-demand service provider that airs shows such as "Dynasty" and "Riverdale," released on March 1 a featurette where Rosenberg, along with the cast of the female-led show, talked about what "Marvel's Jessica Jones" is all about and why many people relate with the storyline--despite not having the same powers as the angry female superhero.
According to lead actor Krysten Ritter, "Jessica Jones resonated in such a big way because we haven't seen a superhero like this before." Ritter describes her titular character as being both strong and vulnerable. "Despite everything that she's been through, she still fights."
The show also tackles differences in each character and breaks stereotypes.
One of the greatest contrasts in the show is the friendship between Ritter's Jones and Rachael Taylor's Trish Walker. The two characters seem to be polar opposites at times, but they work as a team and as best friends.
According to Taylor, the show explores themes such as control and ambition. Eka Darville, who plays Malcolm Ducasse, adds that the show is unique because despite being superhero-centric, the characters are "just trying to survive and work through their demons."
Discovering one's identity
Rosenberg continues, "All of the characters are dealing with the issue of 'Who am I?' 'How do I fit into the world?'" With movies such as "Black Panther" hitting the big screens, and the male-dominated, highly-anticipated Marvel film "Avengers: Infinity War," it's no wonder Rosenberg had to address the female dominance in the show.
According to the showrunner, "It's not necessarily from a woman's perspective. It's about a balanced perspective."
"A powerful female protagonist or female director or female showrunner--that shouldn't be unique." Furthermore, Rosenberg mentions that the show is not about being just a superhero. "It's about being a human being in the world."
Taylor also praises Rosenberg for "reflecting the entirety of the human condition," stating that it's what Rosenberg "does best."
"Marvel's Jessica Jones" will be available on Netflix on March 8.