Tom Hiddleston Explains Why Loki Wasn’t In Avengers: Age of Ultron
With the popularity of the MCU character, Loki, it was a surprise that he did not appear in this summer’s Avengers: Age of Ultron. In an interview with Digital Spy, actor Tom Hiddleston explains.
Hiddleston shot as Loki for one day, appearing in the dream sequence of Thor (Chris Hemsworth). Loki’s scene was cut because in test screenings audiences had gotten the impression that he was the controlling presence manipulating Ultron (James Spader) in secret.
While Hiddleston bears no grudges, the story is interesting when considering how the film industry works. Test screening has often been regarded with contempt by the movie viewing public. The rationale for such opinions is that the films that result from such processes are pandering to audience expectations rather than offering an un-compromised artistic vision.
On the other hand, as test screenings are only held for movies that can afford them. As a consequence, some regard the practice as cynical and money grabbing. Some go further, asserting that the practice is evidence of a film lacking merit on face value.
The legitimacy of such positions is variable and might be interesting to look at more closely. However, in this case the act of test screening does seem to have played a role in avoiding confusion. In a film that is long and fast paced, such narrative confusion would easily mar the reception. Therefore, while it may not be popular, test screening may not be as valueless as some claim.
What do you make of Loki not being in Avengers: Age of Ultron? What do you make of test screening in general? Let us know in the comments!
