Luke Cage Showrunner Says Harsh Criticism Made Season 2 Better

The second season of Luke Cage has garnered positive reviews, even outdoing the first in many ways. Critics have praised the second season for a faster pace, better characterization, and avoiding what has plagued the other second seasons of Marvel Netflix shows like Jessica Jones. Good writing and acting obviously played a big part but showrunner Cheo Hodari Coker also credits his harshest critics for making him work harder.

During an interview with iO9, Coker revealed that a harsh review for some of the show's first episodes inspired him to do better. One particular review criticized the show for treating Cage more like a superhero than a person, which Coker took to heart. The showrunner revealed that he used to be a journalist, which is probably why he understood the criticisms.

"The writer Angelica J. Bastién wrote the recaps for Vulture during season one and, man, there were some critiques that were some of the most scathing reviews I've ever seen in my life. But, she's such an incredible writer that as a former journalist, I loved what she wrote and how she wrote it even though it hurt."

"The one that hit me the most was when she said that it was too bad that the writers of Luke Cage didn't think of Luke Cage as a man, but only as a superhero. So we said "Ok, how do we approach the show in a way where we're really dealing with Luke himself at the center of the things—his issues."

Filmmakers and actors often have mixed responses to harsh criticism, so seeing someone like Coker actually use it to better himself is great. The fact that he doesn't use lazy excuses like "the movie was made for fans" is great and something Suicide Squad director David Ayer can learn about. With the internet often so critical about journalists who review movies, positive stories like this show that criticism can make things better.

Luke Cage is now streaming on Netflix. Both seasons can be watched now.

Read:The 10 Best Easter Eggs From Luke Cage Season 2