Russell Crowe Mocks 'Madame Web' Star For Her Disappointment With Comic Book Movies

The "Gladiator" actor was reflecting on his life, legacy and career when a question about Dakota Johnson inspired some "impish" humor.

Russell Crowe is tired of actors expecting to find “life-changing” depth on the sets of comic book movies.

The Oscar winner was reflecting on his life and career when the conversation turned to Dakota Johnson, who starred in “Madame Web” earlier this year to disastrous box office results. Johnson subsequently complained that the critical flop, produced by Sony and based on Marvel characters, was “made by committee.”

“You’re telling me you signed up for a Marvel movie, and some fucking universe for cartoon characters... and you didn’t get enough pathos?” Crowe laughingly told British GQ in a piece published Thursday. “Not quite sure how I can make this better for you.”

“It’s a gigantic machine, and they make movies at a certain size,” he continued.

While he admitted that “the impish quality” of his humor had been triggered by the question, Crowe was nonetheless baffled that anyone is expecting creative control or guaranteed success from a role in a superhero franchise. He explained simply: “These are jobs.”