Abstract
Films tend toward the socialization of audiences in terms of culture. The symbolism and abstraction invoked by films suggests an exchange of ideas and beliefs, i.e. ideologies. This thesis seeks to explore and understand the avenues of ideological hegemony, particularly U.S. military ideology, through two popular superhero film franchises. These two films highlight U.S. military involvement in portrayal and effect. The methodology developed will generate an index of the depth and a breakdown of the reach of influence. This thesis found that the initial films in the franchises did showcase U.S. military ideology and exemplified very effective U.S. military involvement before replacing the U.S. military with the obscurely-owned S.H.I.E.L.D. agency and its own militancy.