Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Detailed behind-the-scenes showcase fun for Marvel fans.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Marvel's 616
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Marvel's 616 is a documentary series about the comic book juggernaut. The "616" in the title is an in-joke for Marvel fans, as "616" is a sort of shorthand for "universe." Each episode focuses on a different aspect of the Marvel universe, and is a self-contained documentary created by a different filmmaker. The films mix together interviews and archival footage and comic art. One episode tells the story of the Japanese Spider-Man TV show, one focuses on the women artists and creators of Marvel, and another explores superfans dressing up at Comic Con. The documentaries explore how Marvel has intersected with various parts of culture around the world.
Is It Any Good?
These documentaries are definitely aimed at an adult audience, and may be a tad boring for some kids. Marvel superfans will delight in learning stories about the franchise that aren't common knowledge. For example: did you know that there was a Japanese Spider-Man TV show that had a completely different story and also inspired the Transformers and Power Rangers series? Even casual fans interested in media and pop culture will enjoy seeing the brand through a new light. Be prepared for a fare amount of navel-gazing though, as Disney+ doesn't present any criticisms of Marvel in the series.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the media empire behind Marvel. What are some surprising ways Marvel properties have intersected with people's lives around the world?
Because the series is produced by Disney, Marvel's parent company, the documentary series speaks pretty positively about Marvel. Can you think of any criticisms of the brand that the documentary left out? Is it possible to make a documentary without bias?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 20, 2020
- Network : Disney+
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Superheroes
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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