Tensions are rising between Marvel and the “Rat” studio to pre-announce movies.
In a surprising revelation, a newly published book reveals Disney’s push for Marvel to announce Chapter Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the first two major projects: Armor Wars and Fantastic Four. The work, co-authored by Joanna Robinson, Dave Gonzalez, and Gavin Edwards, titled The State of Marvel Studios, details how Marvel was forced to make these announcements ahead of schedule.
Corporate pressure
Covid-19 has hit Hollywood hard, creating uncertainty and tension among investors. In this context, the company’s CEO, Bob Iger, together with Executive Director Bob Chapek, organized Investor Day 2020. The goal was clear: to reassure investors and inspire fans. Supernatural president Kevin Feige and Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy have been called on to announce several projects, including Armor Wars and Fantastic Four, although neither is ready to go public yet.
The development of the War Machine series has been shrouded in mystery. Originally conceived as a series for the broadcast platform, it was turned into a film production. Marvel admitted last year that the project was being restructured, without providing details about production and release dates. James Spader is rumored to return as Ultron in the film, which will directly follow the MCU’s Phase Five Secret Invasion sequel.
A project surrounded by rumors
On the other hand, the classic Marvellite family has been the subject of constant rumors without official announcements from the studio. Pedro Pascal is speculated to play Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic and Vanessa Kirby will play Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, with him as a central plot point. In the year While it has a May 2, 2025 release date, the project may experience delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, and is currently in pre-production stages.
Ironheart, which was announced at the 2020 convention, has completed filming on another sequel, but has been hit with delays. The series is expected to be similar to War Machine at the time of its release. On the other hand, Reed Richards’ team and company represents an attempt at a reboot for the franchise, which underwent adaptations in 2005, 2007 and 2015, with mixed results from critics and the box office.
The effect of the decision on the fans
The premature announcement of both products highlights not only the tension between both companies, but also the complex relationship between innovation planning and corporate needs. This situation shows how high-level decisions affect the artistic development and narrative of long-awaited projects. For fans of the MCU, this revelation could raise concerns about the quality and consistency of these future films, especially considering the expectations of the MCU’s predecessors.
On the other hand, the image of James “Rodey” Rhodes / War Machine, played by Don Cheadle, deserves special attention. His series promises to be a turning point for this character who has played a secondary but significant role in the Marvel Universe. This project could be an opportunity to explore his story and development in depth, which is missed by fans of the character. Marvel’s ability to balance the demands of narrative and corporate pressure will be critical to the success of these projects and maintaining the loyalty of global audiences.
Hard times for UCM
This news comes at a difficult time for the MCU. The Marvels, the last top five film, had a low opening weekend. There are also doubts about the Blade reboot and the future of Kang, played by Jonathan Majors, due to the actor’s legal troubles.
Reign of Marvel Studios is now available on Amazon, offering an inside look at the intricacies and challenges behind one of the most successful cinematic universes in history.