Murphy's Multiverse

Author: Joseph Aberl

  • First Look at ‘Fortnite’s New ‘Multiverse of Madness’ Scarlet Witch Skin Leaks

    First Look at ‘Fortnite’s New ‘Multiverse of Madness’ Scarlet Witch Skin Leaks

    Nowadays, it has become a tradition that any major film release will also include some kind of tie-in. Most of the time, all eyes are on the Funko Pops that add a little something for collectors. Yet, there’s another gaming franchise that has become quite consistent with its film tie-ins. Fortnite has always revealed some great skins for players that always wanted to play as their favorite heroes. Well-known Fortnite leaker HYPEX has shared the first look at Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness‘ tie-in skin that features Wanda Maximoff’s new Scarlet Witch costume.

    While we don’t get a good look at the full design, it definitely is great to know that we’ll get to play as this version of Wanda in the game, especially those that wanted to get their hands on the iconic costume. The design definitely stands out and feels like a natural evolution from what we saw in WandaVision, which surprisingly didn’t have a tie-in. So, while I said it consistently has a tie-in, there are also some expectations, and perhaps is this addition a way to make up for that.

    UPDATING

    Source: Twitter

  • Benedict Wong Down for a ‘Doctor Strange’ Disney+ Spinoff Series With Jacob Batalon

    Benedict Wong Down for a ‘Doctor Strange’ Disney+ Spinoff Series With Jacob Batalon

    Disney+ has become the best place for Marvel Studios to put the focus on characters that usually only end up on the sidelines. It looks like some actors are down to explore their characters further in a spinoff series, such as a recent reveal by Benedict Wong. You’d think that the Sorcerer Supreme, as revealed in Spider-Man: No Way Home to be Wong, would deserve his own series. In an interview with Fade to Black Podcast, he agreed with that sentiment when asked if he’d be down for his own Disney+ spinoff.

    Well look, hey, I’ll just have to wait for the Wong-tourage to kind of make the placards, they’re rioting in the streets now. Hey, what do we say? It would be wonderful, wouldn’t it? I’d certainly be up for it, definitely. Where’d we go with that? We could go anywhere. So far, we always have Wong go through a portal and we don’t know what happened for the last 5 years so maybe there’s a [story] in it. Yeah, like a 5-year series. And some, they [Marvel Studios] do it so well.

    Benedict Wong

    He even goes on to pitch what he’d love to explore as a potential sorcerer and apprentice storyline. He highlights Ned as his potential padawan, who also revealed he had some magic in his bloodline when he summoned portals to help his friend in his battle against some multiversal foes.

    I’d quite like the idea of the sorcerer and the apprentice with Ned as my apprentice. Obviously, he’s got a few of the old portal skills.

    Benedict Wong

    It would be a fun idea, especially as Ned set out to MIT. Him combining both worlds as a reluctant Wong takes him under his wing would be a fun comedy series. It could also pay tribute to the many apprentice-focused storylines we’ve seen in the past. Of course, it all depends on what Wong’s fate will end up being once Multiverse of Madness rolls around. Once it releases, we’ll know more.

    You can watch the Interview with Fade to Black Podcast here:

    Source: Twitter via The Direct

  • ‘X-Men ’97’ Head Writer on Disney+ Series’ Place in the MCU Canon

    ‘X-Men ’97’ Head Writer on Disney+ Series’ Place in the MCU Canon

    If there’s ever a question on everyone’s mind when a new Marvel series or project is announced: is it canon? As it is a continuation of the original 90s series, it seems very unlikely that the series is connected, but in an interview with The Direct, head writer Beau DeMayo may have hinted that there is more to this than may meet the eye. While he doesn’t confirm anything, he does hint that their place within the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe could be revealed.

    The one thing I can say towards that is, I know sometimes we say, No comment,’ and it’s like, ‘They’re just being obstinate.’ I’m gonna go with no comment here because part of the surprise will be finding that out when you experience the show.

    Beau DeMayo

    It definitely would make for a great surprise to find out that the X-Men have been around since the 90s. It is the first time that Marvel Studios gets to work with the IP since Disney purchased the rights back through 20th Century Fox. It’s still unclear how exactly the X-Men might arrive within the ever-expanding MCU at this point.

    What does stand out is that Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness will feature the return of Patrick Stewart as Professor X. We’ve gotten glimpses of what looks like his iconic yellow chair from the animated series and comics. So, the show might potentially lead to the events of his upcoming introduction. For now, we’ll have a lot of fun speculating.

    Source: The Direct

  • Oscar Isaac on Potentially Returning to the MCU after ‘Moon Knight’

    Oscar Isaac on Potentially Returning to the MCU after ‘Moon Knight’

    Moon Knight is something special among the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s ever-expanding connective tissue. While it still is definitely part of this universe, it’s probably the most standalone project since Phase 1. Still, there’s always going to be the hope that Oscar Isaac would reprise the role in future projects, especially as the Disney+ series was hinted at as a limited series. In an interview with New York Times, he has talked about the future of his character and highlighted that he’s just happy that the project is a more self-contained story.

    It’s a new character that we’re taking a chance on. The nature of the story is this investigation, this slow-reveal mystery. If it goes somewhere else, that’s great. I’m glad it’s not just an advertisement for synergy.

    Oscar Isaac

    He does compare it to his experiences with previous blockbuster projects like X-Men: Apocalypse and the Star Wars Sequel trilogy. While he seemingly burnt out on these types of franchises, the Marvel project reignited that excitement and pulled him back in. He was also the one that pulled in Ethan Hawke to join the project, as it gave him that spark he was hoping to get.

    It’ll be interesting to see what the future has in store for Marc Spector beyond his own series. We’re only a few days away from the Moon Knight finale finally releasing on Disney+. He’s been a prominent member of the Avengers and Marvel comics throughout the years. It would be a shame to not see him interact with others throughout, especially replicating some of his hilarious interactions with Spider-Man as well as further exploring his psychology.

    Source: New York Times

  • ‘Doctor Strange 2’s Xochitl Gomez on a Potential Young Avengers Spinoff

    ‘Doctor Strange 2’s Xochitl Gomez on a Potential Young Avengers Spinoff

    Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is about to be unleashed into theaters and will introduce the world to Xochitl Gomez‘s America Chavez. The famous member of the Young Avengers has the ability to punch her way through the multiverse, which makes it the perfect jumping-off point for the character. Of course, as many of their latest ventures introduced some younger heroes, it seems almost inevitable that we’ll meet the young team of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.

    It seems that Gomez is of the same opinion, as in an interview with ComicBook.com, she also discussed her hopes of having the team form in the future, especially highlighting Kate Bishop and Kid Loki, who was a curious addition as a Vriant in the Disney+ Loki series. She’s certainly on board for this team to form in a future project.

    Of course Kate Bishop and I think Loki because I want to see how that can pan out.

    Xochitl Gomez

    Young Avengers is seemingly the end goal with many story beats hinting at their formation. While it’s unclear if we’ll even see another classic Avengers film anytime soon, it does look like they want to have this next generation of heroes become an integral part of the franchise. For now, we can still only speculate, especially with when they might fast-track this project, but it’s great to see the new cast members excited for its potential.

    Source: ComicBook.com

  • ‘Marvel’s Avengers’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’s Future Currently Uncertain After Square Enix Sale

    ‘Marvel’s Avengers’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’s Future Currently Uncertain After Square Enix Sale

    A bombshell has just dropped, as Square Enix just sold its entire Western division for only $300M. With one single sale, the Japanese developer has sold every Western company under their umbrella alongside the many IPs that they work on. Yet, it also opens up the question of what exactly this means for the future of the Marvel games that are being developed by some of their studios.

    Initially, the deal made between Square Enix and Marvel would include four games. Two of those released in the form of Crystal Dynamics’ first venture into Games-as-a-Service with Marvel’s Avengers and the story-focused Guardians of the Galaxy by Eidos. During the press conference on the purchase, a statement was made on if the development of Marvel games would continue.

    All games that have been developed by the studios are included in the deal. However, a number of external approvals are needed from external parties to close this transaction. And potentially, licenses as mentioned here could be one of those approvals needed.

    Lars Wingefors

    So, if Marvel or Disney decides not to renew the license, the games would potentially find their end. This news hits especially hard for Crystal Dynamics, which has been quite dedicated to making Marvel’s Avengers work as a service game. after its critical success, there was also a lot of hope that Guardians of the Galaxy would get a sequel. Yet, if they do not renew their deal with the new Embracer Group, it sadly could spell the end of these ventures once the deal is finalized.

    Source: Embracer

  • BREAKING: Square Enix Sells Entire Western Division to Embracer Group for Only $300M

    BREAKING: Square Enix Sells Entire Western Division to Embracer Group for Only $300M

    Earlier last month, we learned that Gearbox’s parent company, the Embracer Group, was planning to continue its acquisition spree in the coming months. While not much was known on who they were currently eyeing at the time, a sudden press conference has revealed that Square-Enix has now sold its entire Western division, including all IPs connected to those companies, to the Embracer Group for $300M. This purchase includes the companies of Eidos, Crystal Dynamics, and Square Enix Montréal. CEO Lars Wingefors had the following to say on the purchase:

    We are thrilled to welcome these studios into the Embracer Group. We recognize the fantastic IP, world class creative talent, and track record of excellence that have been demonstrated time and again over the past decades. It has been a great pleasure meeting the leadership teams and discussing future plans for how they can realize their ambitions and become a great part of Embracer.

    Lars Wingefors

    Phil Rogers, the head of Square Enix America and Europe, also shared the following statement on the purchase by Embracer:

    Embracer is the best kept secret in gaming: a massive, decentralized collection of entrepreneurs whom we are thrilled to become a part of today. It is the perfect fit for our ambitions: make high-quality games, with great people, sustainably, and grow our existing franchises to their best versions ever. Embracer allows us to forge new partnerships across all media to maximize our franchises’ potential and live our dreams of making extraordinary entertainment.

    Phil Rogers

    It’s quite the shocking move, as Square Enix continues to move further away from its Western studios. there have already been hints that things weren’t going smoothly, as over the years each Western release wasn’t selling as the Japanese studio hoped. This move would include the sales of IPs such as Tomb Raider, Legacy of Kain, Thief, Desu Ex, and more. The fact they sold those studios for $300M is not a good sign, as it implies they were more focused on getting rid of it rather than increasing their profit. Here’s hoping that this new home may benefit these studios in the long run.

    Source: Embracer

  • REPORT: Warner Bros. Discovery Cancels ‘The Wonder Twins’ Film

    REPORT: Warner Bros. Discovery Cancels ‘The Wonder Twins’ Film

    Here’s a rather shocking surprise if true, but it looks like Adam Sztykiel‘s upcoming adaptation of The Wonder Twins has been swiftly canceled according to That Hashtag Show. While many expected some major shifts with the Warner Bros. and Discovery merger, it’s surprising to see a project getting canceled just as it’s getting its team together. We just recently learned that they’ve cast KJ Apa and Isabel May in the leading roles.

    The project was eyeing a production start in July, but it seems that the WB and Discovery merger is currently cleaning house. While projects already in some form of active development will still release, it seems that some of the announced projects in the past might not see the light of day. It’s a shame that a project based on such an interesting property, especially for those that grew up with their animated appearances throughout the years, has been canned before it even got started.

    There’s no word from That Hashtag Show why exactly it was potentially canceled, but we’ll see if an official announcement may follow at one point. For now, it seems that the merger may wipe their DC slate clean and refocus their projects moving forward. This move is quite surprising as they just announced a sequel to The Batman recently as well. So, we’ll see what the future of the DC looks like moving forward.

    Source: That Hashtag Show

  • ‘Moon Knight’ Almost Featured Echo as a Love Interest

    ‘Moon Knight’ Almost Featured Echo as a Love Interest

    Here’s a rather surprising reveal, but it seems that at one point Echo, better known as Maya Lopez, was considered to be the love interest for Marc Spector in the Moon Knight Disney+ series. Head writer Jeremy Slater revealed in an interview with the House of R podcast that they had Echo as the love interest at one point in its scripting phase, especially as Marvel Studios was interested in introducing the character.

    At the time, Echo was going to be our love interest, solely based on the fact that they knew Marvel liked the character of Echo and was trying to find a show to put her in.

    Jeremy Slater

    While the character was a love interest in the comics, they had a hard time fitting her into the storyline. As it’s a collaborative process, they pitched different ideas and it seems that they’ve realized the bigger potential to explore her character in Hawkeye at some point in the process.

    They were like, ‘You know what, we’ve got this Hawkeye show and we feel like she would fit in a lot better there and we were like, ‘Oh, thank God.”

    Jeremy Slater

    It looks like they had gone through quite a few ideas early on in the process, which was teased in the past as they had concept artists and writers support the teams to bring these ideas together. The Disney+ shows are also a new venture for Marvel Studios which also comes with many new learnings moving forward. So, we’ll see what other projects went through quite a few changes as they release more.

    Source: House of R via TV Line

  • ‘Doctor Strange 2’ Writer on How the Sequel Expands Upon MCU’s Magic

    ‘Doctor Strange 2’ Writer on How the Sequel Expands Upon MCU’s Magic

    Magic is about to expand in the MCU, as Doctor Strange finds himself lost within the vastness of the multiverse. The Marvel universe has been quite a bit different since 2016, as we’ve been introduced to many more powerful magic users, sci-fi concepts, and so much more. Naturally, the arrival of the upcoming release of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness makes many wonders just how it might further explore the concept, and luckily writer Michael Waldron offered some insight during the film’s press conference.

    The first movie was very much about Stephen Strange entering this world of magic, learning about it […] and beginning to master it. And then, we had Stephen in several other movies and the Avengers films, and then Spider-Man: No Way Home. This is our first time in a movie that is really his and this is our chance to focus on that magic and check in on what is it look like 5 years on.

    Michael Waldron

    He goes on to highlight that it’s definitely an expansion, which leads to quite a lot of laughter early on while trying to answer the question, and focuses on how every character involved is at a ta certain point that helps push it forward.

    This guy who was the greatest surgeon, now he’s been a sorcerer for a while. He’s been through a lot, how good of a sorcerer is he? We’re seeing him kind of at the height of his powers and I think that’s really exciting. At the same time, you’re encountering Wong, who has become Sorcerer Supreme. He’s at the height of his powers. Then you have Wanda, who is actualized in a whole new way from the end of WandaVision and you could say she’s at the height of her powers.

    Michael Waldron

    The potential of exploring these characters at the height of their power certainly opens up a lot of potential in how the film has to tackle these powerful magic users going at it. In a way, the multiverse seems like the perfect way to not only catch them off-guard but also push them into exploring concepts way beyond their understanding even with their current standings.