Marvel star Karen Gillan has addressed the backlash she's received regarding her character Ruby Roundhouse's outfit in the Jumanji reboot films, highlighting its satirical intent. Gillan emphasized that her costume, meant as a commentary on the portrayal of female characters in video games, was designed to reflect the impracticality seen in iconic characters like Lara Croft in Tomb Raider. Despite the criticism, she noted that participating in the Jumanji films and Marvel projects has been a significant evolution from her earlier work in British television. The next installment in the Jumanji franchise is anticipated to release in December 2026, marking the conclusion of the reboot series.

Why is Karen Gillan’s costume in Jumanji considered a satire?

Karen Gillan's costume in Jumanji is considered satire as it exaggerates the often impractical outfits worn by female video game characters, serving as a commentary on the male gaze and the unrealistic expectations placed on these portrayals.

The Jumanji franchise began with the original 1995 film, which was based on the children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The reboot series, starting with Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle in 2017, reinvigorated the classic story, transforming it into a video game adventure featuring an ensemble cast that includes Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, alongside Gillan. These films have received positive reviews for their humor and fresh take on the beloved story, with the upcoming sequel set to conclude the new series of films.