Comic book fans have had it pretty great the last few years, and even when a movie flops, the constant prospect of seeing some of our favorite heroes at least make it to the screen is exciting. Moreover, studios’ continuous search for that next big thing from the world of comics has caused them to dig deep and check out specific properties that are not precisely household names but have enough intrigue and content to draw in an audience.
The announcement that Devliina is getting a movie adaptation certainly falls into the category of a little-known property with enormous potential. Yet, despite many only hearing of the Atlas Comics character from the recent announcement, we expect a lot of incoming hate as details emerge.
The Modern-Day Fear of Satanism
Are we entering a new age of Satanic Panic? Maybe not to that extent, but the very nature of Devilina being the sister of Satan is certainly going to ruffle some feathers when it comes to the conservative crowd. While we don’t know anything about the story, you can look at shows like the recent Hazbin Hotel, which had Christian groups up in arms for the implied romanticization of Hell as a fun and comedic place to chill out in (via Decider). This scrutiny before a project is even released has become common in all forms of media, which, under the current ‘culture war,’ has led to speedy inflammatory statements on both sides that are quick to condemn content.
This scorn seems almost inescapable, and one can look to a series like Good Omens as an example. Good Omens certainly parodies aspects of religion, but to go as far as to say it is anti-religious, as many groups claim, is stretching the definition. One would hope we have moved past hang-ups where content that criticizes aspects of culture is a reason to get upset on the Internet, but it has been repeatedly proven that that is not the case. Just look at the reactions to the 2024 Olympics’ opening ceremony. “Satanic Panic” may not be as mainstream as it was in the ’70s and ’80s, but in echo chambers, it is indeed alive and well.
Expect Infighting About the Devilina Adaptation
How adaptations are handled has been a constant point of contention among viewers. While every argument has merits on both sides and should be addressed on a case-by-case basis, Devilina will have to make some changes, and people will not like them. Devilina was Atlas Comics’ answer to the popular Vampirella, and those more familiar with that 60s vampire vixen know the selling point was blending ‘sexiness’ with horror.
It is a whole different discussion, but it is undeniable that studios are backing away from eroticized content and female characters to the extent they were shown in previous decades. That bikini costume will not happen, and honestly, it doesn’t need to because it is unnecessary. However, despite Devilina being a kind of obscure character, those who have never even read the comics will be upset that studios are changing the design, even with something as minor as giving her proper clothing. If gamers get apoplectic about such things (and they do), expect comic book readers to. Plus, many comic book fans essentially don’t like women leading shows or movies (look at the hate toward She-Hulk, Madame Web, The Marvels, etc.).
Devilina seems like an exciting property with room for interpretation and growth on the screen. Even if it is hated by some for merely existing, it can survive if it finds the right audience.
