Benedict Cumberbatch's recent revelations about "Avengers: Secret Wars" and "Doomsday" have sent shockwaves through the Marvel fandom. He not only spilled the beans on these upcoming films but also touched on Marvel's plans for the X-Men era that follows. Marvel Studios and Kevin Feige must be thrilled with this unexpected promotional strategy, as it shifts the spotlight from other less favorable topics.
Conspiracy Theory? Doctor Strange is Not in Doomsday
The absence of Doctor Strange in "Doomsday" has sparked numerous discussions. It appears that Marvel has intentionally controlled the narrative around these leaks, perhaps to divert attention from recent controversies like those surrounding Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, or issues with "Captain America: Brave New World."
Cumberbatch confirmed significant plot changes, including the transformation of "Avengers 5" from "Kang Dynasty" to "Doomsday" and the surprising return of Robert Downey Jr. This shift also means that fans won't see a Doctor Doom and Doctor Strange team-up reminiscent of the comic "Triumph and Torment." Instead, the storyline will take a different direction post-"Secret Wars," with Robert Downey Jr.'s involvement concluding.
Doctor Strange's absence from "Doomsday" might be limited to a post-credits scene setting up "Secret Wars," aligning with the character's new role in the altered narrative. Originally, Strange was meant to be a central figure in the "Kang Dynasty" storyline, which also involved Shang-Chi playing a significant role. However, with the script rewritten, Shang-Chi's involvement has been downgraded, and Victor Von Doom has taken center stage.
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Spider-Man, Not the Iron Man
"Avengers: Doomsday" will pivot towards the Fantastic Four and Doctor Doom, leading directly into the narrative of the film. This shift underscores the importance of the upcoming Fantastic Four movie as a precursor to "Doomsday." A post-credits scene, similar to "Thor: Ragnarok," will set the stage for "Doomsday."
Kevin Feige's concept of "anchor beings" was highlighted during "Deadpool and Wolverine," and while the identity remains undisclosed, it's clear that Iron Man is not this pivotal figure. Cumberbatch's comments suggest Spider-Man might be the anchor, especially since Doctor Strange's role has been altered.
Both versions of "Avengers 5," whether "Kang Dynasty" or "Doomsday," seem to be inspired by the "Time Runs Out" storyline, culminating in the multiverse's collapse into Battleworld, setting the stage for "Secret Wars."
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Secret Wars
"Secret Wars" promises to be a grand multiverse event, featuring a team of legacy actors akin to a multiverse Avengers team. This film will serve as a soft reboot for the MCU, allowing Marvel to reshape its universe. Cumberbatch's revelations have confirmed that Shang-Chi's role has been diminished, and his sequel delayed in favor of other projects like the new Spider-Man movie.
In "Secret Wars," Doctor Strange was initially set to be a survivor of the multiverse's destruction, joining a cast that includes many pre-MCU Marvel characters. The film's scope now resembles a larger version of "Deadpool and Wolverine," potentially bringing back iconic characters like Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield's Spider-Man, and classic Fantastic Four actors.
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The Future of MCU and Strange
Cumberbatch's insights into the MCU's future indicate a significant role for Doctor Strange in the upcoming X-Men era. This could involve him in X-Men-centric narratives, as hinted by his appearance in "X-Men '97."
Doctor Strange 3's release has been pushed back to align with "Secret Wars," necessitating a complete overhaul of its plot. The film might now explore more X-Men-related magic or even a classic Defenders storyline, with Doctor Strange at the helm. Alternatively, it could focus on a "Midnight Suns" team-up, potentially featuring characters like Moon Knight and Ghost Rider, adding fresh dynamics to the MCU.
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Cumberbatch's candid interview has opened up a world of possibilities for the MCU, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this ever-evolving universe.
