But did Natasha Romanoff really need help from the boys?

“Initially, there was discussions about everything, about all of the different characters,” said Shortland.

We didn’t want it to feel like she needs the support.

Black Widow

Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow/Natasha Romanoff in ‘Black Widow’.Jay Maidment/Marvel Studios

We want her to stand alone.

And she does."

After years spent waiting in the wings, Natasha Romanoff didn’t need an assist from the guys.

It was time for her to prove her mettle on her own.