Why Phil Coulson Hasn't Told the Avengers About His Survival: A Deep Dive
The Background:
As a seasoned SEO professional for Google, it's crucial to understand both in-universe and out-of-universe factors that influence digital engagement. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the reason for why Phil Coulson hasn't revealed his survival to the Avengers is a complex interplay of creative decisions and narrative strategies.
In-Universe Explorations:
The primary narrative driver is explored in the television series, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. After his apparent death in the 2012 film, Avengers: Infinity War, Coulson undergoes a secretive and experimental process involving the T.A.H.I.T.I. project, which was intended to heal injuries but led to unpredictable side effects, including his resurrection.
Protecting the Team:
Coulson may have believed that revealing his survival could complicate the Avengers' dynamics or distract them from their missions. He often prioritized the team's cohesion and effectiveness over personal revelations. This decision is rooted in his long-standing role as a leader who ensures the team remains focused and effective.
Personal Transformation:
His experience with the T.A.H.I.T.I. project changed Coulson profoundly. He needed time to come to terms with his new identity and abilities, feeling the need to redefine his role in a world filled with superpowered individuals. Such a transformation suggests a period of internal conflict and personal growth, which adds depth to his character.
Operational Security:
By keeping his survival a secret, Coulson could operate with a degree of autonomy, enabling him to lead S.H.I.E.L.D. and manage threats without the Avengers' direct oversight. This choice highlights his strategic thinking and his commitment to the mission.
Narrative Development:
From a storytelling perspective, keeping Coulson's survival a secret allowed for the development of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. as a standalone series. It explored themes of loyalty, identity, and the consequences of resurrection without directly involving the Avengers. This narrative choice provided a unique perspective and allowed for richer character development.
Out-of-Universe Factors:
Out of the MCU, the decision to keep Coulson's survival a secret can be attributed to the different divisions within the company. Prior to WandaVision, the TV shows were run by a different division not under the control of Kevin Feige. Ike Perlmutter, who was in charge of Marvel TV, had a tense relationship with Feige. This explains why characters from shows like Agent Carter, Cloak and Dagger, and Runaways did not appear in the movies until Feige regained control. As far as Feige is concerned, Coulson was killed by Loki, end of story.
Conclusion:
Phil Coulson's decision not to reveal his survival to the Avengers is a multifaceted narrative choice. It reflects his complex character and the intricate relationships within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This decision adds layers to Coulson's identity and provides a unique perspective on the story.