As Deadpool recently pointed out, Marvel is currently experiencing a rough patch. While we may enjoy voicing our complaints, what if it’s actually okay that no one can save the MCU?
It can be assumed that you have already read the headline and had a sarcastic reaction or winced. If you have wisely decided not to support a franchise that aims to emotionally and mentally manipulate you, then you have likely experienced the impact of Marvel’s downfall.
In 2019, everyone was at the peak of their excitement. The world was buzzing with the success of Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame and fans were experiencing a mix of emotions as they said goodbye to beloved characters. Robert Downey Jr gracefully departed from the MCU, paving the way for a new era of superheroes.
Looking back, it is clear that this new generation has been a bit disappointing. Since Eternals, Marvel’s output has become more muddled and less innovative, and fans have not hesitated to voice their disappointment. However, hope was on the horizon with the highly anticipated release of Deadpool & Wolverine this year.
Despite its success both commercially and critically, Deadpool & Wolverine still faces criticism from those who constantly lurk in the corners of Marvel. Some on Twitter and Reddit have expressed their disapproval, citing the film’s crass humor as a major flaw and comparing it to the stench of a dead possum in a ditch.
In a shocking twist, Downey Jr is set to reprise his role as supervillain Doctor Doom in Avengers 5, adding to the already mind-blowing news. While the announcement at SDCC left Marvel fans in a frenzy, the overall response has been predominantly negative as the dust begins to settle.
As fans, should we be surprised by any of this? No. However, instead of fixating on who initiated the conflict like a schoolyard brawl, we should consider the larger consequences – which may actually be the most beneficial if the MCU were to completely dismantle itself.
Possible Implications of the MCU Announcements
As we approach that argument, it is necessary to evaluate our current standing. The next five steps for the MCU have been solidified – Captain America 4, Thunderbolts, Fantastic Four, Avengers: Doomsday, and Avengers: Secret Wars. This leaves no room for flexibility until at least 2027. In my opinion, Marvel has already reached a crucial point in their success.
As someone who holds a cynical perspective like myself, the upcoming phase of Marvel may not make much of an impact, except for the potential success of F4. The film Deadpool & Wolverine may serve as an example of this, as its overuse of meta references becomes tiresome when paired with a lackluster villain and a forced connection to the Avengers. The disjointed MCU has yet to realize that significant changes are necessary for the franchise to thrive, rather than just relying on superficial gimmicks to generate buzz. The changes must originate from within the core.
Despite the fact that the next two Marvel movies have already been filmed and the following two are currently in deep development (with Secret Wars still unwritten), it is now too late for the MCU to make any sudden alterations. Despite the controversy surrounding Kang and the subsequent need for course correction, Marvel is standing by their decisions no matter what, and it’s understandable why they would choose to do so.
Similar to my Features Editor, you may see these upcoming steps as a significant shift for the MCU. It is possible that we are on the brink of a gradual introduction leading up to Secret Wars, which may hold more intrigue than we anticipate. Instead of RDJ being the sole Doom, could there be multiple versions of the character? And could the journey towards a fresh Avengers and X-Men timeline present unexpected obstacles and benefits?
Despite initially appearing unimpressive, it is important to acknowledge that Marvel may have contributed to our current good ideas. However, without any proof of their commitment, it is understandable to doubt the potential success of these ideas. The available information does suggest a connection between Deadpool and Wolverine, which only perpetuates the oversaturation of superhero content.
Let the MCU Burn and We’ll Be Better Off
Despite differing opinions, what one person may view as superhero nonsense, another may find it to be a source of superhero motivation. As self-proclaimed Marvel activists, and with the current level of fan scrutiny, we essentially hold the power to bring about significant change. Our radical theory suggests that in order for this change to occur, the current structure must be entirely dismantled and reconstructed from the bottom up.
Despite the seemingly irrelevant application of political strategy to highly paid actors in tight lycra, the repetition of mistakes by Marvel only reinforces the urgency of this perspective. Instead of harboring resentment, we should view the inevitable downfall of the MCU as an opportunity for positive change.
Change paves the path for new opportunities and creativity. Once Doom has completed his destructive reign and the Avengers have their next big showdown, a new beginning emerges. Marvel can return to their fundamental belief that anyone is capable of anything, free from the constraints of existing canon, fan criticism, or the mishaps of their recent releases.
Although there are rumors of projects like Doctor Strange 3 in the works, Marvel has a history of going back on its promises (such as the uncertain status of Blade). Just because a film has been promised does not necessarily mean it will be delivered. As much as I admire Charlize Theron, perhaps it would be best to leave that post-credits scene untouched.
Imagine an ideal Marvel universe by closing your eyes. A variation of the Marvel multiverse, if you may. Instead of being overly concerned with timelines, guest appearances, and mashups, our revamped MCU focuses on genuine emotion, compelling narratives, and individual projects that do not rely on being connected to future releases.
After 2027, the possibility of fans getting the Marvel they truly desire will reach its peak. All they need to do is remain patient and witness the flames take hold.
The flames are inevitable – Kevin Feige is intentionally selecting elements that will drive fans crazy – so let’s prepare by grabbing a blanket, a marshmallow, and a toasting stick, and witness the chaos unfold.
Stay informed on Spider-Man 4 and Venom 3, as well as other exciting upcoming Marvel films and television series and top supervillains. Additionally, don’t miss out on the latest movies available to stream this month.
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