Murphy's Multiverse

Author: Joseph Aberl

  • Benedict Cumberbatch Promises ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ is “On the Level of” ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’

    Benedict Cumberbatch Promises ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ is “On the Level of” ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’

    We’re already in March and while Moon Knight is just around the corner, all eyes are still on the next multiversal chapter with Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Quite a few MCU projects have been teasing the storyline, but Benedict Cumberbatch will finally take a step into the multiverse after keeping it from collapsing after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. While there are quite a few rumors making the rounds, we know very little about the film’s story and Cumberbatch promises that “it’s a big, big movie.” He even goes on to compare it to No Way Home.

    It’s going to be an absolute riot. And if it brings off the level of ambition it’s got, we’re going to have a success on the level of Spidey. There you go, I’ll put my flag in the sand

    Benedict Cumberbacht
    Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness – exclusive

    After the first trailer gave us a glimpse of a popular character from the 20th Century Fox franchise making a return, the comparison is well-deserved. Most of the latest Spidey film’s marketing was focused on the returning faces while keeping quite a few elements hidden. Marvel Studios took that to a new level with the hint at Ultron bots, which would imply the return of a Variant of Tony Stark, someone fighting Wanda with Captain Marvel-like abilities, and a very familiar voice.

    There’s a lot riding on the project, and who knows how it may further expand the multiverse afterward, especially with hints that the events of Loki were building up to an adaptation of Secret Wars. Strange might be at the center of everything moving forward, and this journey into the insanity that is the multiverse might be the only thing that’ll ensure that it doesn’t fully break down and unleash even worse nightmares.

    Source: Empire

  • ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ to Release Digitally a Week Early

    ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ to Release Digitally a Week Early

    Here’s a nice surprise, but it looks like Spider-Man: No Way Home is getting released digitally a week early. So, the wait won’t be as long with the film now releasing on March 15th. The news was just shared by Fandango’s Erik Davis and comes hot off the heels of a digital HD version of the film leaking online. It seems that the early release was also accidentally leaked earlier by the Apple store as noticed by The Direct.

    Of course, one can’t complain that we’re getting access to one of the biggest films since the pandemic started from the comfort of our home. It’ll be interesting to see how well it sells, as the nostalgia-filled romp through Spidey’s cinematic history will definitely be on everyone’s must-have list. The physical release sadly didn’t get an earlier release, but that could change as time goes on.

    No Way Home somehow managed to balance a heartfelt and empowering story with many moments of nostalgic bliss. The return of Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield probably managed to push the film even more, as many wanted to confirm if the countless leaks were true or not. We’ll see what the special features may reveal that almost made its way into the film.

    Source: Twitter

  • BREAKING: Original ‘Deadpool’ Writers Return to Work on ‘Deadpool 3’s Script

    BREAKING: Original ‘Deadpool’ Writers Return to Work on ‘Deadpool 3’s Script

    Mere minutes after the news broke that Shawn Levy is in negotiations to direct the upcoming third entry of Deadpool, it seems there’s a bit more to the story. While the report still confirms that Wendy and Lizzie Molyneux are still involved in writing the script, it seems that some veterans of the franchise are back. the Hollywood Reporter’s Aaron Couch has shared an additional detail that Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, who wrote the first two installments, are also back to work on the third entry.

    The original article has also been updated which reveals that these writers are also adding their own input to the script. It’s unsure why they are suddenly involved, but it’s not uncommon for Marvel Studios to have multiple writers tackle a script throughout its development process. Perhaps due to their history with the originals, they might just add some elements to keep the character consistent throughout the projects as its leading star Ryan Reynolds has also actively been involved with the script.

    So, we shouldn’t take this as them being unhappy with the initial version but rather part of their process as they get external thoughts in, especially with it involving the writers of the original. It’ll be interesting to see how they tackle the project and if we’ll hear about how much the Molyneux sisters are still involved. It’s motivating to see that the project is moving forward and further adds to a feeling for when we might expect it’s release.

    Source: Twitter, The Hollywood Reporter

  • BREAKING: ‘The Adam Project’s Shawn Levy to Direct ‘Deadpool 3’

    BREAKING: ‘The Adam Project’s Shawn Levy to Direct ‘Deadpool 3’

    It’s been long theorized given just how closely Ryan Reynolds has worked with director Shawn Levy on projects like Free Guy and Netflix’s The Adam Project, but we finally got the confirmation. Levy is in negotiations to tackle the third entry in the Deadpool franchise, which will see Wade Wilson join the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Reynolds has been working on the script alongside Bob’s Burger‘s Wendy Molyneux and Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin.

    In a way, Reynolds and Levy have not been subtle about hints that these negotiations were potentially already happening. He takes over from Tim Miller, who directed the first entry in 2016, and David Leitch who took over the sequel. Sadly, there is still no release date included and no word when we might expect it to enter production for now.

    It has been confirmed that the film will be R-rated and it’ll be interesting to see how Levy tackles a project like that given his background with more PG-13 fair. With Disney+ adding mature content like Daredevil, Iron Fist, and more, there’s a good chance that the future MCU entry from Deadpool may also eventually find its way to the service. We’ll see if its potential success may also draw the interest of Disney to further explore other R-rated content. For now, let’s just hope that having a director attach may kickstart production sooner rather than later.

    Source: The Hollywood Reporter

  • REVIEW: ‘Gibbon: Beyond the Trees’ is a Short Yet Important Experience

    REVIEW: ‘Gibbon: Beyond the Trees’ is a Short Yet Important Experience

    Gibbon: Beyond the Trees is quite a simple game at first glance. Most of the time, you’ll spend swinging from tree to tree, building up momentum so that you can cross some dangerous gaps and enjoy the visuals. There’s no dialogue or text to tell a grand story, but that is not necessary for what the game truly is about. It’s an interactive reminder of what humanity has done to nature and how it affects animals as a result. A soothing and relaxing experience transforms into a dark reminder of the dangers these animals face; all packaged in a memorable but brief experience.

    As a mobile game, there’s not much you can say about its gameplay. You press the screen to hold on to a branch or object, where your gibbon automatically climbs up. If you hold it with both fingers while ready to land, you’ll end up in a sliding motion. Later on, you get an additional move by flicking to the right that adds some extra momentum while swinging from one branch to the other. The only real consequence you face is a slowdown if you don’t keep a consistent flow from branch to branch. At worst, there are some bigger gaps that challenge you to stick to the higher point of a tree.

    The big focus point of this game is in the actual experience and seeing the environments change. What starts off with a beautiful forest, swiftly turns into a dark look at deforestation and the rise of humanity taking over the land. There are segments where it purposely takes away anything to swing off to force you to slowly make your way to a new point to start your climb once again. Especially in one section, there’s a sudden spark in danger that also has a thematic reason to exist. I just don’t want to give away what it is, because it caught me off-guard and reminded me what the game is truly about.

    It’s a very short experience that you can probably get through in one sitting. Yet, it’s quite a memorable one with the sound effects of the gibbon’s soft cries. There’s a soothing soundscape that adds to the experience throughout, may it be a waterfall in the background or even a lively populated area. Everything you witness is there to relax and take it in, especially as the earlier parts try to comfort you into this experience. It even purposefully has that section I mentioned previously to pull you out of it at a time you least expect it to highlight the connection of your experience with the gibbons.

    If you end up falling down a pit, the worst thing that’ll happen is that you respawn at an earlier point to build up the momentum you need to jump over that gap. I do believe it’s more of an interactive experience that has a very important cause behind it and it’s very admiring what Broken Rules have accomplished here. The game is currently available through Apple Arcade but is eyeing a release on Steam and Nintendo Switch. I highly recommend giving it a shot, it’s a short yet important experience that’ll surely pull at your heartstrings.

  • Michael Giacchino Confirmed to Direct Marvel Studios’ First Halloween Disney+ Special

    Michael Giacchino Confirmed to Direct Marvel Studios’ First Halloween Disney+ Special

    It’s been quite some time since we first heard about Marvel Studios working on a Disney+ Halloween special. the idea is exciting, as there are a lot of characters to choose from with rumors going crazy that it’ll be focused on Werewolf by Night. A recent interview on The Batman‘s score even added more hints that composer Michael Giacchino was taking on directing duties. for an unnamed Marvel Studios project Now, we finally have the official confirmation that he is indeed tackling the Halloween special.

    The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed his involvement with the project, which is eyeing a production start at some point this month in Atlanta. Laura Donnelly and Gael Garcia Bernal are involved with the project; castings we’ve heard about for some time now. The article does add that Bernal is very likely taking on the role of a werewolf in the project. They also mention that music played a key part in the recent revamp that helped the character control his abilities. Perhaps that was also an inspiration to have the composer tackle the project.

    The project still remains untitled and hasn’t been officially announced what it’s about. It’s interesting they are introducing a character initially introduced in Moon Knight #32, but it doesn’t seem like there will be a connection with his upcoming series. Though we still have some time until it releases and perhaps we’ll get a post-credit announcement for the spinoff with Moon Knight facing off against the unlikely foe in the special.

    Source: The Hollywood Reporter

  • ‘One Piece’s Iñaki Godoy Shares What it Means to Play Luffy

    ‘One Piece’s Iñaki Godoy Shares What it Means to Play Luffy

    Netflix is taking a deep dive into live-action adaptations of popular anime and manga franchises. While Cowboy Bebop sadly got canceled after only one season, all eyes are on the One Piece series to hopefully manage what the previous project couldn’t. Young actor Iñaki Godoy will take on the daunting task of bringing Monkey D. Luffy to life in the upcoming series and shares his excitement about taking on the role in an interview with Vanity Teen.

    To portray a character like Luffy is one of the greatest honors of my career and I know that this experience will stay with me forever regardless of the outcome.

    Iñaki Godoy

    The actor is aware of the fact that taking on this role is nothing to take lightly, as he talks about his hopes that the fans enjoy the series they are putting together.

    I hope fans will enjoy the live-action just asmuch as I’m enjoying working on it. This show is making me grow as both an actor and person. I’m nervous, but I’m way more excited.

    Iñaki Godoy

    The creative team behind the project has been sharing their love for the franchise and adding a lot of hope for fans of Eiichiro Oda‘s manga series that they’ll faithfully recreate the series in live-action. We’re slowly seeing more from the set and while we’re still far away from the release, it does build up some anticipation. What helps is seeing the dedication of the cast that are all-in for this new franchise.

    Source: Vanity Teen

  • ‘Turning Red’ Director and Producer Share Hopes for a Sequel

    ‘Turning Red’ Director and Producer Share Hopes for a Sequel

    Director Domee Shi brought a heartwarming story about puberty and family to Disney+ with Turning Red. We get to meet a colorful cast of characters, who introduce us to the magical land of Canada. Jokes aside, our time with Meilin and her friends offers quite a few cute and awkward moments that any teenager goes through. Even though it just arrive don Disney+, there’s quite some interest in a sequel that further explores Mei’s time as a giant red panda and seeing her get to spend more time with her friends. Luckily, Shi has revealed that the ending was meant to keep the door open for more..

    We are open, but we haven’t talked about it. But yeah, it’s an invitation at the end for more stories.

    Domee Shi

    Producer Lindsey Collins also highlights that they hope the audience connects with the film’s cast and that it keeps people wanting a chance to spend more time with them.

    Hopefully, at the end of a movie, you’ve fallen so in love with the characters that you have a hard time letting them go. I mean, as the filmmakers, not even as the audience, I feel that way. I love these characters. I never got tired of them. I was always like, ‘I’d go hang out with those characters again.’ I want to see what they’re up to. So, yeah. Who knows?”

    Lindsey Collins

    While there are no definite plans, it does seem like the team behind the project is definitely all in for a sequel. With Disney’s new streaming home, they aren’t restricted to just a film and could also explore a TV series. They have also been quite vocal about other animated projects being franchises that will continue to grow, and Turning Red is a perfect addition to their ever-growing library moving forward. So, here’s hoping.

    Source: Comic Book

  • ‘Dune’ Co-Writer Investigating “Other Cinematic Prospects” for the Franchise’s Future

    ‘Dune’ Co-Writer Investigating “Other Cinematic Prospects” for the Franchise’s Future

    All eyes are currently on the second entry of Denis Villeneuve‘s Dune, as casting is finally underway to hit its 2023 release date. Yet, it seems WarnerMedia has some grand plans moving forward as Dune: Part Two co-writer Jon Spaihts has revealed that they are looking into expanding the galactic storyline with various spinoffs.

    So far, only one titled Dune: The Sisterhood is in development for HBO Max. Ironically, he was spearheading the project until he had to leave to focus on the sequel while Diane Ademu-John took over showrunning responsibilities. In an interview, he offered some details on the franchise’s future.

    “[The television show] is carrying on and I’m not allowed to talk about it very much. But that effort is alive and well. I ended up getting moved off of it to work, not just on ‘Dune: Part 2,’ but to investigate other cinematic prospects in the ‘Dune’ universe, which we are still talking about and which, again, I’m not allowed to say very much about. But it is a very rich world in which to play, and I think it is ripe with opportunities for storytelling in every direction

    Jon Spaihts

    While most of the first film takes place on Arrakis, we do get a glimpse at a wider universe. Of course, the titular Dune is the main focus of the story and there are a variety of stories to tell in the past, present, and future of its timeline. It would seem natural that they’d explore the Children of Dune and God Emperor of Dune after they wrapped up with Dune: Messiah.

    Especially the latter could offer a curious glimpse into a very different future that has some horror science fiction elements. Yet, it’s uncertain if they might turn these into spinoffs that are a bit more independent from a cinematic experience. For now, we can only theorize but there is enough here to explore a lot of different stories.

    Source: Playlist via Variety

  • ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ Production Eyeing Reshoots in the Coming Weeks

    ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ Production Eyeing Reshoots in the Coming Weeks

    Here’s some interestingly hidden information. Tucked away in The Wrap’s article on Disney’s John Carter box office bomb, there’s a brief statement on how Marvel Studios has made reshoots part of its production schedule no matter the project. In addition, they reveal that Taika Waititi‘s Thor: Love and Thunder is going back for additional photography in the next few weeks. There’s no word for how long but the timing is interesting considering it is still planning on releasing on July 8th.

    It’s not uncommon that reshoots have just a few months before the film releases, especially as we don’t know what exactly the scope is for the production. Marvel Studios has standardized this practice for all its films, as it gives them a chance to refocus or tighten up specific scenes. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness also underwent reshoots to add scenes for characters that initially faced scheduling issues.

    There’s no mention of what or for how long Thor: Love and Thunder will undergo but we’ll have to see. There’s always a chance they are aiming to add some scenes or even refine action elements. These films also undergo testings that help the creative team get a feeling for what works for audiences and what doesn’t. Who knows if Waititi just had some fun ideas that he is dying to add into the film.

    Source: The Wrap