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Draft:America Chavez (Marvel Cinematic Universe)

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America Chavez
Marvel Cinematic Universe character
First appearance
Based on
America Chavez
by
Adapted bySam Raimi
Michael Waldron
Portrayed byXochitl Gomez
In-universe information
Full nameAmerica Chavez
SpeciesAlien
OccupationStudent at the Masters of the Mystic Arts
Interdimensional traveler
AffiliationMasters of the Mystic Arts
FamilyAmalia Chavez (mother)
Elena Chavez (mother)
OriginUtopian Parallel

America Chavez is a character portrayed by Xochitl Gomez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) media franchise, based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name.[1] Chavez is portrayed as a superhero with the distinctive power to traverse the Multiverse.[2] She is a student at the Masters of the Mystic Arts at Kamar Taj.[3]

America Chavez made her debut in the film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).

Concept and creation

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America Chavez first appeared in Vengeance #1, published in September 2011, and was created by writer Joe Casey and artist Nick Dragotta.[4] In her original backstory, she was raised by her two mothers, Amalia and Elena Chavez, in a dimension known as the Utopian Parallel, which exists outside of conventional time.[5] Her parents sacrificed themselves to protect their dimension from a lethal threat.[6] Following this, Chavez left her home and became a superhero on Earth-616.[7] She chose to take on the codename Miss America.[8]

However, Chavez later discovered that her parents were not extraterrestrials but human doctors.[9] They were murdered while attempting to cure her of a condition known as Edges Syndrome.[10] During experimental treatments involving extra-dimensional energies, she gained her superhuman abilities.[11][12] The narrative of being from an alien universe was a coping mechanism she developed to deal with the trauma of her parents' deaths and her own condition.[13]

Adaptation

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In January 2020, it was rumored that the character of America Chavez would star in the sequel of Doctor Strange (2016).[14] In December, it was confirmed by Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, that she would appear in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).[15] Chavez was originally intended to appear in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021).[16] She was supposed to play a sorcerer's apprentice type role in the film.[17] However, this idea was eventually scrapped because of the film releasing before Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as a result of delays.[18]

Filmmaker Sam Raimi discussed the inclusion of America Chavez to the MCU, stating, "She adds an exciting spirit of youth."[19] Former Marvel Studios executive Victoria Alonso said, "Children want to see themselves represented. There is this level of identity that comes to be a very important moment in an adolescent's life – to see themselves; to not be invisible."[20] Actress Xochitl Gomez asserted, "It’s just great that other people feel represented with her being on screen and I think it’s a really big deal. She’s representing the LGBTQ [community], Latinas, teens and girls. There’s just so much right there."[21]

Casting

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Xochitl Gomez initially doubted that Marvel Studios would select her to play America Chavez due to her age, as she was thirteen at the time.[22] The character of Chavez was originally envisioned as a young adult.[23] Despite her reservations, Gomez proceeded to submit a self-tape for the role.[24] Her first audition took place in February 2020, followed by a second audition in August of the same year.[25] She was cast in the role two days after her screen test and audition in England.[26] Subsequently, Marvel Studios adjusted the character's age to align with Gomez’s actual age.[27]

Appearances

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Xochitl Gomez portrays America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).[28]

Characterization

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Xochitl Gomez described America Chavez as "resilient" and "charismatic," highlighting that despite facing immense adversity, Chavez remains hopeful and inspires support. Gomez emphasized that this portrayal offers a positive representation for Latinas and teenagers.[29] Furthermore, she characterized Chavez as "confident" and "very optimistic."[30]

Costume designer Graham Churchyard, who designed America Chavez's outfit for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, described her as an "emo teenager." He drew inspiration from the Latin American holiday Day of the Dead and other Latin influences when creating her jacket.[31] In the film, Chavez’s jacket features Spanish poetry and elements of Portuguese witchcraft.[32]

Fictional character biography

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Early life

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America Chavez hails from the Utopian Parallel, a dimension existing outside of time and space, where she lives with her two mothers, Amalia and Elena Chavez.[33] After accidentally opening a star-shaped portal that transports her parents across the Multiverse,[34][35] Chavez is left to fend for herself. She spends years traveling alone through various universes and eventually befriends an alternate version of Stephen Strange.

Battling the Scarlet Witch

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Main article: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Chavez and strange decide to search for the Book of Vishanti, an ancient and powerful spell book, in order to defeat a demon that is after them. Strange is murdered in the process, but Chavez manages to escape and travels to Earth-616 owing to a portal she conjures.[36] However, another demon appears and starts chasing her shortly after.[37] She is rescued by the Sorcerer Supreme Wong and that universe's version of Strange, who defeat the demon together. Chavez reveals that the reason demons hunt her is because she possesses the power to open portals through the Multiverse.[38] She explains that her ability manifests when she feels scared.[39]

Strange asks Wanda Maximoff for help after he recognizes witchcraft runes associated with the demon. However, he realizes that she is the one responsible for the attacks, and witnesses that she has been taken over by the Darkhold. He refuses to surrender Chavez and joins her at Kamar-Taj to protect her.

During a fight against Maximoff, Chavez accidentally opens a portal and transport herself and Strange to Earth-838.[40] Both are apprehended by this universe's Sorcerer Supreme, Karl Mordo.[41] They are brought before the Illuminati, a group consisting of Mordo, Peggy Carter, Blackagar Boltagon, Maria Rambeau, Reed Richards, and Charles Xavier.[42] With the help of the Earth-838 version of Strange's ex-fiancé, Christine Palmer, they escape and find the Book of Vishanti. However, Maximoff appears and destroys the book, and then proceeds to control Chavez's mind, using her powers to send both Strange and Palmer in an alternate universe.

Strange manages to get back to Chavez and encourages her to believe in herself, telling her that she is strong enough to battle Maximoff. After the fight, she opens a portal to Earth-838, which leads Maximoff to realize the error of her ways.[43] Chavez uses her power to conjure another portal and leave. She is later trained at the Masters of the Mystic Arts at Kamar Taj.[44][45]

Differences from the comics

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In the comics, America Chavez is portrayed as a young adult; however, in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, she is depicted as a young character.[46] Chavez is not from the Utopian Parallel—a fictional realm created by Chavez in the comics as a response to childhood trauma—but rather hails from Earth-616.[47] Following the disappearance of her mothers, Chavez was adopted by the Santana family at a young age and did not spend her childhood alone.[48]

Reception

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Critical response

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Following the release of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, America Chavez was praised by various critics. Brady Langmann of Esquire observed that America Chavez might be the standout element of the film.[49] Sandie Angulo Chen of Common Sense Media described Chavez as a positive role model, highlighting her courage, curiosity, and kindness.[50] Rosie Knight of Nerdist noted that Chavez is portrayed as powerful, humorous, and effectively in command of her narrative.[51] Kristina Garcia of Los Angeles Times commented that Chavez, with her witty humor, charm, and self-assured confidence, quickly captures audiences' hearts in the latest installment of the Doctor Strange franchise.[52] Jenna Anderson of ComicBook.com referred to America Chavez as one of the most notable new additions to the saga's ensemble cast.[53] Blaise Santi of Looper included Chavez in their list of "13 Marvel Characters That Deserve a Character Study Like Moon Knight," suggesting she merits deeper exploration.[54] Louis Kemner of Comic Book Resources ranked Chavez 9th on their list of "10 Most Lovable MCU Heroes," describing her as charming, innocent, and endearing.[55] Chris E. Hayner of GameSpot ranked Chavez 21st in their ranking of "38 Marvel Cinematic Universe Superheroes," noting that despite her recent introduction in Doctor Strange, she has made a significant impact.[56]

For her performance in the film, Xochitl Gomez was complimented by multiple critics. Evan Romano of Men's Health praised Xochitl Gomez as a "standout newcomer" and described her performance as "great."[57] Ronak Kotecha of The Times of India characterized Gomez as a "welcome addition" to the cast, noting her portrayal of the "confused yet formidable" Chavez.[58] Amelia Emberwing of IGN commended Gomez for her "admirable job" in bringing America Chavez into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).[59] AMC Theatres recognized Gomez in their "2022 Breakout Movie Performances" list, highlighting her role as one of the film's most emotionally impactful elements. They suggested that Gomez, along with her character, will likely play a significant role in future MCU crossover films.[60] Ben Sherlock of Screen Rant included Gomez in their "10 Best Performances in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" list, noting that her portrayal merges youthful enthusiasm with a seasoned, world-weary attitude, and praised her comedic timing.[61] Jessie Nguyen of Collider listed Gomez among the "8 Best Performances in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness," emphasizing that Gomez effectively uses her screen time to develop America Chavez's character and hinted at her potential for future success within the MCU.[62] Timothy Stevens of Looper ranked Gomez 6th in their "Best Performances in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness," describing her as "appealing" and noting that she maximized her limited screen time to convey the essence of her character.[63]

Fandom

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Kiko Martinez of Remezcla observed that America Chavez quickly became a fan favorite within the Marvel Cinematic Universe following her debut in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.[64] AJ Gabriel of Screen Rant noted that the character's "outspoken charm" has captivated audiences, highlighting her appeal as a multiverse-traveling teenager.[65] Jamie Jirak of ComicBook.com remarked that anticipation for Xochitl Gomez's role was high among Marvel fans, and the actress lived up to expectations, with America Chavez trending on social media,"[66] while Jenna Anderson mentioned that Xochitl Gomez won a substantial fanbase through her portrayal of America Chavez in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, gaining significant popularity for her role.[67] Michael Wash of Collider pointed out that fans generally viewed Xochitl Gomez’s performance as a standout element in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, noting it as a highlight of the film.[68] Furtheremore, several critics have identified the character as the first Latin-American LGBT superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).[69]

Accolades

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Year Work Award Category Nominee(s) Result Ref.
2022 Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Las Vegas Film Critics Society Awards Best Female Youth Performance (Under 21) Xochitl Gomez Nominated [70][71]
Digital Spy Reader Awards Rising Star Nominated [72][73]
Golden Issue Awards Best First Appearance America Chavez Nominated [74][75]

In other media

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Video games

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Merchandise

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  • In 2022, Disney released an America Chavez / Miss America doll inspired by the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness incarnation of the character.[77] Hasbro released an America Chavez / Miss America action figure inspired by the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness incarnation of the character, as part of the Marvel Legends action figure line.[78] Lego released an America Chavez / Miss America Lego minifigure inspired by the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness incarnation of the character.[79] Funko released an America Chavez / Miss America Funko Pop figure inspired by the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness incarnation of the character.[80]
  • In 2023, Disney released an America Chavez / Miss America pair of ear headbands inspired by the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness incarnation of the character.[81]

See also

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References

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  1. ^
    • Somers, Fraser (April 4, 2021). "MCU: 10 Characters Who Could Form A Young Avengers Team". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved September 3, 2023.
    • Marston, George (June 30, 2022). "America Chavez - the Marvel history of Doctor Strange 2's powerful new teen hero". Newsarama. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  2. ^
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  5. ^ Lovett, Jamie (December 22, 2021). "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Trailer Offers First Look at America Chavez". ComicBook.com. Retrieved February 6, 2023.
  6. ^ Pennington, Latonya (January 9, 2017). "Ms. America: 15 Awesome Facts About America Chavez". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved July 2, 2017.
  7. ^ St James, Jordan (February 15, 2022). "Every New MCU Main Character Making A Debut in 2022". Collider. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  8. ^ Harn, Darby (January 8, 2022). "15 Things Only Comic Book Fans Know About America Chavez". Screen Rant. Retrieved October 4, 2022.
  9. ^ Gugliersi, Antonella (May 7, 2022). "America Chavez's Mothers In The Comics (& What Happened To Them)". Screen Rant. Retrieved March 11, 2023.
  10. ^ Macready, Tyler (May 6, 2022). "Who Is America Chavez in 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness'?". Collider. Retrieved October 4, 2022.
  11. ^ Gabrielle, Chloe (March 1, 2023). "10 Greatest Marvel Heroes Who Draw Power From Alternate Dimensions". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved March 11, 2023.
  12. ^ Davies, Rachael (February 14, 2022). "Marvel's America Chavez: Who is America Chavez and what role will she have in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness?". The Scotsman. Retrieved September 22, 2023.
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  21. ^ Taylor, Tiffany (May 3, 2022). "'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' Stars Tease Surprises and Discuss Importance of Representation at Hollywood Premiere". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved September 22, 2023.
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  30. ^ Holmes, Adam (July 29, 2022). "Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness' Xochitl Gomez Talks America Chavez's Future, The Marvel Villain She Wants To Fight And More". CinemaBlend. Retrieved July 8, 2023.
  31. ^ Schedeen, Jesse (July 20, 2022). "Doctor Strange: The Secret Origins of Multiverse of Madness' Comic Book-Worthy Costumes". IGN. Retrieved July 8, 2023.
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  33. ^ Garcia, Mayra (May 14, 2022). "10 Things You Didn't Know About America Chavez In The MCU". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  34. ^ Ulatowski, Rachel (May 12, 2022). "What Is the Utopian Parallel in Marvel?". The Mary Sue. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  35. ^ Singh, Olivia (May 6, 2022). "'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' just introduced a new superhero. Here's what you should know about America Chavez". Insider. Retrieved July 8, 2023.
  36. ^ Cejer, Autumn (July 14, 2022). "All Versions Of Doctor Strange In Multiverse Of Madness Explained". Screen Rant. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  37. ^ Glassman, Julia (May 11, 2022). "Every Easter Egg in 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness'". The Mary Sue. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  38. ^ Busch, Jenna; Scott, Ryan (April 27, 2022). "Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Footage Reaction: All Nightmares Are Real [CinemaCon 2022]". Slashfilm. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  39. ^ McArdle, Tommy (May 5, 2022). "America Chavez's Powers In Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Explained". Looper. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  40. ^ Stevenson, Rick (May 9, 2022). "Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Scenes That Deserve A Second Watch". Looper. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  41. ^ Erdmann, Kevin (September 16, 2022). "All 22 Universes In Doctor Strange 2". Screen Rant. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  42. ^ Walsh, Michael (May 6, 2022). "Your Biggest Questions About DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS, Answered". Nerdist. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  43. ^ El-Mahmoud, Sarah (May 6, 2022). "Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Ending Explained: Examining Scarlet Witch's Decision And That Strange Twist". CinemaBlend. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  44. ^ Zalben, Alex (June 22, 2022). "'Doctor Strange 2' Ending Explained: Who Was at the End of 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness'? | Decider". Decider. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
  45. ^ Edel, Victoria (May 6, 2022). ""Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" End-Credits Scenes, Explained". PopSugar. Retrieved July 7, 2023.
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  49. ^ Langmann, Brady (May 6, 2022). "Where Do the 'Doctor Strange' Heroes Go From Here?". Esquire. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  50. ^ Chen, Sandie Angulo. "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie Review | Common Sense Media". Common Sense Media. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  51. ^ Knight, Rosie (May 3, 2022). "DOCTOR STRANGE 2 Is a Horror-Soaked, Hilarious, and Heartfelt Sequel". Nerdist. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  52. ^ Garcia, Kristina (May 7, 2022). "'Doctor Strange' fans 'inspired' as America Chavez brings Latina and LGBTQ representation to the MCU". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  53. ^ Anderson, Jenna (June 21, 2022). "Doctor Strange 2 Perfectly Sets Up an America Chavez Spinoff". ComicBook.com. Retrieved July 8, 2023.
  54. ^ Santi, Blaise (February 14, 2023). "13 Marvel Characters That Deserve A Character Study Like Moon Knight". Looper. Retrieved July 8, 2023.
  55. ^ Kemner, Louis (June 20, 2022). "The 10 Most Lovable MCU Heroes". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  56. ^ Hayner, Chris E. (June 27, 2022). "All 38 Marvel Cinematic Universe Superheroes, Ranked - Sorry, Moon Knight". GameSpot. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  57. ^ Romano, Evan (May 3, 2022). "'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' Is Peak Sam Raimi". Men's Health. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  58. ^ Kotecha, Ronak (May 4, 2022). "Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Movie Review : This visually splendid and colourful multiverse saga casts its magic spell". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  59. ^ Emberwing, Amelia (May 3, 2022). "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Review". IGN. Retrieved September 24, 2023.
  60. ^ "2022 Breakout Movie Performances". AMC Theatres. December 23, 2022. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  61. ^ Sherlock, Ben (May 9, 2022). "10 Best Performances In Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness". Screen Rant. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  62. ^ Nguyen, Jessie (May 23, 2022). "8 Best Performances in 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness'". Collider. Retrieved July 23, 2023.
  63. ^ Stevens, Timothy (May 12, 2022). "The Best Performances In Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness, Ranked". Looper. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  64. ^ Martinez, Kiko (May 3, 2022). "Here's What Early 'Doctor Strange 2' Screenings Had to Say About America Chavez". Remezcla. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  65. ^ Gabriel, AJ (May 17, 2022). "America Chavez's 10 Best Quotes In Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness". Screen Rant. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  66. ^ Jirak, Jamie (May 6, 2022). "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: America Chavez Trends As Fans Celebrate Xochitl Gomez's MCU Debut". ComicBook.com. Retrieved July 23, 2023.
  67. ^ Anderson, Jenna (August 4, 2022). "Marvel Star Xochitl Gomez Partners With SweeTARTS For TikTok Film Festival". ComicBook.com. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  68. ^ Wash, Michael (August 26, 2022). "MCU: Phase 4's New Heroes, Ranked". Collider. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
  69. ^
  70. ^ Neglia, Matt (December 11, 2022). "The 2022 Las Vegas Film Critics Society (LVFCS) Winners". NextBigPicture.com. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  71. ^ Anderson, Erik (December 12, 2022). "2022 Las Vegas Film Critics Society awards: 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' wins six". AwardsWatch.com. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  72. ^ Rowan, Iona (December 20, 2022). "The Digital Spy Reader Awards 2022 full results". Digital Spy. Retrieved September 3, 2023.
  73. ^ Rowan, Iona (December 26, 2022). "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever cleans up at the Digital Spy Reader Awards 2022". Digital Spy. Retrieved September 3, 2023.
  74. ^ Drum, Nicole (December 19, 2022). "The 2022 ComicBook.com Golden Issue Awards Nominees for Movies". ComicBook.com. Retrieved September 3, 2023.
  75. ^ Barnhardt, Adam (December 28, 2022). "The 2022 ComicBook.com Golden Issue Award for Best First Appearance". ComicBook.com. Retrieved September 3, 2023.
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