What does Mahershala Ali’s signing on for Jurassic World 4 mean for the MCU reboot of Blade?
Mahershala Ali, one of Hollywood’s most popular stars, is in talks to join Scarlett Johansson in Jurassic World IV. This move leaves a big unknown about Marvel Studios’ long-awaited Blade reboot.
The recording and the opportunity with Blade
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Ali is in talks to share the screen with Scarlett Johansson in Jurassic World 4. Jonathan Bailey, Rupert Friend and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo are confirmed to star in supporting roles, with Gareth Edwards, known for directing Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Godzilla.
The recording and the opportunity with Blade
Production on Jurassic World 4 is scheduled to begin in mid-June in London. This is an important detail as it coincides with the expected start date of filming on Blade. Although the report doesn’t specifically mention Blade, it doesn’t seem likely that Ali will be able to work on both projects at the same time, unless the MCU project faces another unknown delay.
When last heard from Blade, Marvel was reportedly looking for a new writer to give the script a meaningful direction, even though they had already outlined the overall story. Ali confirms this in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, where he expressed his hopes for the direction of the project.
We are working on it. It’s the best I can tell you. I am very encouraged by the direction of the project. I think we’ll be back relatively soon.
“I’m really excited about where things are and who’s on board and who’s directing the script and the director and all that,” Ali added. “That’s why I’m telling you.”
New Jurassic period
As for Jurassic World 4, plot details are being kept under wraps, but the film will reportedly usher in a “new Jurassic era” with an entirely new story. This means that Jurassic World stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard will not be returning for this installment, along with the original cast played by Sam Neill, Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum.
Veteran producer Frank Marshall, who oversaw the Jurassic World trilogy, is back, as is another franchise veteran, Patrick Crowley. Steven Spielberg will make the project through his Amblin Entertainment banner.
David Leitch was in talks to direct in early February, but walked away from the project just days later. Apparently, “it became clear to Leitch that the accelerated nature of the project and the fact that the producers would have tight control following the experiences of Jurassic World: Dominion meant that his creative input would be limited.”
Mahershala Ali and the Future of Blade
Blade’s future in the MCU is uncertain. Ali’s possible involvement in Jurassic World 4 could mean another delay for Marvel’s most popular vampire slayer. However, Ali’s positive update suggests that the Blade project is still underway, albeit perhaps more slowly than expected.
With Mahershala Ali likely to be involved in two major franchises, fans from both the worlds will be keenly watching the upcoming news that will decide the direction of these long awaited projects. Can Ali balance his schedule to shine in Jurassic World and the dark Blade universe? Only time will tell.
Mahershala Ali’s involvement in Jurassic World 4 and the delay of Blade reflect the complexity of scheduling in Hollywood. Big stars are often faced with tough decisions when their commitments overlap. For fans, the wait can be frustrating, but for production companies to adjust and improve their projects, it is an opportunity that guarantees a high-quality cinematic experience.