Murphy's Multiverse

Category: News

  • ‘Moon Knight’ Star Joins the “Scorsese vs. Marvel” Conversation

    ‘Moon Knight’ Star Joins the “Scorsese vs. Marvel” Conversation

    For fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the casting of Ethan Hawke in Moon Knight was surely a surprise as he’d been critical of superhero projects in the past. For Hawke, he didn’t like that superhero films – including Marvel films – were highly praised as though they were arthouse projects. When it came to Moon Knight, though, Hawke felt the project was interesting enough to join, especially with Oscar Isaac as the leading man. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t mean he’s fully taken back his comments, though.

    In a new interview with Indiewire, Hawke commented on the “Scorsese vs. the MCU narrative.” The actor noted that people like Scorsese and Coppola deserve to be able to speak their truth regarding films and how there are more important things than making money. 

    “It’s easy for them, but it needs to be somebody in the community saying, “Hey, everybody, this is not Fanny and Alexander,” he explained. “If you keep reviewing these movies that are basically made for 14-year-olds like they’re Fanny and Alexander or Winter Light, then who the hell’s going to get to make Winter Light? I appreciate the elder statesmen of the community reminding people not to set the bar too low. I know it makes some people think they’re stuck up, but they’re not stuck up.”

    That isn’t to say he didn’t have a good experience with Moon Knight, of course. For Hawke, it was important that he – along with Isaac – play in Marvel’s sandbox while still showing the studio what they’re capable of. “I said to Oscar Isaac, “We’ve got to go play in Marvel’s sandbox and try to do what we do. We don’t have to change Marvel. We just want to show them what we’re capable of doing and see if they find it interesting,”’ Hawke explained. “So we had a lot of rehearsals and worked on things a lot. We had a really good experience.”

    While Hawke might not agree that Marvel is director friendly, he insists the studio is actor friendly. “They might not be director-friendly, and that could be what Scorsese and Coppola are talking about. But they love actors. I think Kevin Feige had a great thing happen with Robert Downey Jr. and he understood that Downey’s passion was a large part of the success,” the actor said. “When actors are excited by a part, audiences get excited about watching them. Feige understood the algorithm there, so they’re extremely respectful toward the process.”

    As of now, it is currently unknown if a second season of Moon Knight is happening. Nothing had been announced, and all involved with the Disney+ series have suggested they’ve heard nothing from Marvel Studios as of yet. If the series returns, though, Hawke is uncertain if he’ll return as he isn’t a fan of long-term commitments. “I protected myself because I didn’t know what it was going to be. I just wanted to know what that sandbox was like. And it’s what young people are watching, so why are we going to sit there and tell them it’s not good?”

    Moon Knight is currently streaming on Disney+.

    Source: Indiewire.

  • John Boyega Teases ‘Attack the Block’ Sequel 

    John Boyega Teases ‘Attack the Block’ Sequel 

    John Boyega is about to have his second wind. The actor found his mainstream footing with a lead part in the latest Star Wars trilogy, but now that his time in a galaxy far, far away is over, he’s ready to look at what’s next. Among Boyega’s many brewing projects is a sequel to Attack the Block, one of his first-ever roles, in which he will return as London-born alien-killer Moses. When the film, directed by Joe Cornish, released in 2011, it became an instant cult classic. It was announced last year that both Cornish and Boyega would come back for a second installment.

    Speaking with Deadline at the premiere of Jordan Peele’s Nope, Boyega finally gave fans an update on the film’s progress. The Golden Globe winner explained that he and Cornish met to discuss the sequel just last week, and that more official news about the project should be coming soon:

    We’re in the lab. We’re cooking, we’re cooking. I sat down with Joe Cornish just literally a few weeks ago. So expect some news soon. We’re still in development but we’re cooking something real sweet. We’ll have something soon.

    John Boyega

    Attack the Block centered around a group of London teenagers, led by Boyega’s character, who band together to fend off an alien invasion inside their own housing building. There has been no word on whether or not anyone else from the original cast will also return, but it’s possible viewers will see more of Jodie Whittaker or Nick Frost when the sequel hits theaters. Until then, Boyega can be seen in the upcoming films The Woman King and They Cloned Tyrone.

    Source: Deadline

  • Brett Goldstein Discusses MCU Future and Surprising His Parents 

    Brett Goldstein Discusses MCU Future and Surprising His Parents 

    The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s latest A-list addition is Brett Goldstein. Best known for his role on AppleTV+’s Ted Lasso, the British actor made his surprise debut as Hercules in the post-credits scene for Thor: Love and Thunder. The reveal came as a huge shock for audiences everywhere, and apparently, it was a bombshell for Goldstein’s parents as well. In a recent interview with Variety, Goldstein explained that he kept his new role a secret from almost everyone, including his folks, and sent his family to see the film without telling them he’d be making an appearance:

    I didn’t tell anyone because Marvel put a chip in my neck that said ‘If you talk about this you’re dead’. My mom and dad, I sent them a text and said ‘I’ve just seen “Thor.”‘ I knew it’s not the kind of film they’d see. I said, ‘You should go see it. It’s funny.’

    Brett Goldstein

    The ruse was close to working too well. The Superbob star continued his story and revealed his mother almost missed her son’s cameo:

    My mom is texting me all the way through the film giving me a running commentary. I’m like, ‘Just watch the film!’ It gets to the end bit, where it shows Russell Crowe… My mom texts me ‘Russell Crowe’s in it again, he’s very funny.’ I go, ‘Fucking look up at the screen!’

    Brett Goldstein

    Perhaps much like his own parents, fans are desperate to learn when they might see the Son of Zeus pop up again in the MCU. The post-credits scene hinted strongly he’d return, but there has been no confirmation from Marvel Studios themselves. Unfortunately, it could be a while, as a later bit of the Variety interview had Goldstein stating he has no idea when he might be coming back:

    I truly, honestly — this isn’t me lying or being coy — I know nothing. All I know is what I did that day and that’s it. That could be it. It was a fun three seconds.

    Brett Goldstein

    Thor: Love and Thunder is in theaters now.

    Source: Variety

  • New ‘Ms. Marvel’ Concept Art Reveals Alternative Captain Marvel Cosplay

    New ‘Ms. Marvel’ Concept Art Reveals Alternative Captain Marvel Cosplay

    Ms. Marvel just recently came to an end and wrapped up the Disney+ series on a high note. What started off with some of the most memorable entries for Marvel Studios’ venture into long-form storytelling, introducing the world to one of its most culturally relevant. We even get a fun version of Kamala Khan’s time admiring Captain Marvel and see her cosplaying as the hero during Avenger Con.

    Now, artist Karla Ortiz took to her Twitter page to share a new look at some alternative Captain Marvel cosplays that Kamala would’ve worn. Considering Brie Larson‘s hero wore a surprising amount of costumes throughout, it does seem like they played around with which color tone they’d might take with the character.

    https://twitter.com/kortizart/status/1549147433690546176

    Here’s hoping we get some more concept art that teases how the original plan was for the series to develop. You never know what may have changed from the conceptual time mapping out the project to bring it to life. Ms. Marvel was also affected by COVID which likely led to quite a few changes happening as they mapped out their scripts but adapted to whatever was possible.

    It’s still crazy to think that our first look at Ms. Marvel was during 2020’s Disney Investors Day before we even saw a single thing from Hawkeye. They likely had to adapt some aspects of the project and were adjusting to whatever the pandemic had heading their way. So, who knows just how much it may have changed, which is always an exciting prospect as well.

    Source: Twitter

  • ‘Powerpuff Girls’ Creator Returns to Reboot Series

    ‘Powerpuff Girls’ Creator Returns to Reboot Series

    It’s been a bumpy road for The Powerpuff Girls. In 2016, the franchise received a remake from Cartoon Network that surprised many when they completely replaced the main voice cast outside of Tom Kenny, famous for this time as Spongebob Squarepants, returning. Then, CW has been working on a live-action series that would see the trio as teenagers had many scratching their heads. Well, now it seems they are back again but this time with some more motivating news.

    The series’ original creator, Craig McCracken, is returning to work on a new set of reboots for Powerpuff Girls, as well as Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends. He’s set to work on the project with Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe. Cartoon Network Studios President, Sam Register, had the following to say on McCracken‘s return:

    The Hanna-Barbera homecoming of Craig was an opportunity we could not pass up. Along with his unparalleled sense of fun and imagination, he’s bringing two of his greatest works in ‘The Powerpuff Girls’ and ‘Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends,’ and we are so excited for these characters to be a part of the new legacy taking shape at the studio

    Sam Register

    While they are moving forward with a second attempt to reboot the popular series, there’s also the highlight that the live-action version of the series is still in some form of development over at CW. Chloe Bennett left the project, as she was originally going to play Blossom, and it’s in a form of limbo as they rework the concept. So, we’ll see which one comes out first.

    Source: Variety

  • ‘Agents of SHIELD’ Star Not Interested in Reprising Marvel Role

    ‘Agents of SHIELD’ Star Not Interested in Reprising Marvel Role

    The first Marvel Television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. ended its seven-season run two years ago. Since then, fans of the series have hoped to see many of the characters return in some way, most notably as formal parts of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Iain De Caestecker, who played Fitz in the series, was asked recently whether he would be interested in returning to Marvel in the future. He told Digital Spy:

    I think I would say probably no. And not that I didn’t have a fantastic time doing it…I think, after everything that happened to those two characters [Fitz and Jemma Simmons], they really gave them a happy ending. And I think it would be so sad to mess with that again. It’s not fair … I’m not sure they would survive it this time. So I like the idea that they’re living a life of normality outside of the SHIELD.

    Iain De Caestecker

    The idea that fan-favorite Fitz might not make a return to the big or small screen is surely set to disappoint some fans. Of course, when it comes to Marvel and the MCU, there is always a possibility that De Caestecker will surprise audiences down the line.

    AoS lately, however, is perhaps most known for the debate it sparked with respect to whether some Marvel TV series are official canon to the MCU proper. Marvel Studios has little to no incentive to clarify to fans one way or another, and it is quite possible the question will never be answered in a way that will satisfy everyone. But De Caestecker did weigh in on the topic, and his answer will surely please AoS fans:

    I would say you might have to, because I think the original conception of the show was the fact that Coulson had come from The Avengers, isn’t it? I think you would kind of have to say it is canon.

    Iain DeCaestecker

    With the Netflix Daredevil series being given some recognition by Marvel Studios now, the canon question is hotter than ever. Still, even the most optimistic AoS fans might not get their hopes up to see De Caestecker’s Fitz appear in a Marvel Studios project.

    Source: Digital Spy

  • Misha Green’s ‘Tomb Raider’ Sequel Currently Delayed Indefinitely

    Misha Green’s ‘Tomb Raider’ Sequel Currently Delayed Indefinitely

    There was a lot of excitement when it was announced that Lovecraft Country‘s Misha Green was hired to not only write but also direct the sequel to 2018’s Tomb Raider reboot. Alicia Vikander was set to return as well, but the project has seemingly gone silent. While Vikander has been busy since, especially with the HBO series Irma Vep, she got a chance to sit down with Entertainment Weekly and reveal that the sequel is currently in limbo.

    With the MGM and Amazon buyout, I have no clue. Now it’s kind of politics. I think Misha and I have been ready, so it’s kind of in somebody else’s hands, to be honest. I’ve been excited to show the world. I love what she’s done with Lovecraft Country.

    Alicia Vikander

    There are a lot of questions in regards to why there has been no movement on the project. This statement by Vikander is our first real insight into what has led to it getting delayed indefinitely. As long as the MGM deal isn’t fully finalized, it seems quite unlikely we’ll get any update on the project. There’s also the possibility that they’ll simply pass on the project, as the first entry didn’t really light up the box office.

    Tomb Raider is one of gaming’s most iconic franchises and Angeline Jolie made it one of gaming’s most-successful ventures on the silver screen. While we’re currently in a renaissance for live-action adaptations from the medium, it’s strange that they aren’t using the opportunity to also continue the franchise. Green’s vision likely would’ve breathed a new fresh life into the project but we’ll have to wait a little longer until we get an update.

    Source: Entertainment Weekly

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ Star Opens Up on Kamran’s True Intentions

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ Star Opens Up on Kamran’s True Intentions

    Ms. Marvel was a strong show that not only explored a powerful moment in Pakistani history but also a strong family show. Among all Marvel studios’ projects, this one is the most grounded with its exploration of what it means to be family. While the Clandestine didn’t get as much development as hoped, we still got a great addition in Kamran, who was played by young actor Rish Sha. In an interview with THR, the actor got a chance to talk about his character’s role and his true intentions.

    There definitely is a difference. In the comics, he is a villain. He’s manipulative, and he uses Kamala. Whereas in the show, he’s actually coming from a very pure place and a very genuine place of just wanting to belong and feel at home, and he has this immediate connection with Kamala across multiple fields. And then, obviously, by the end of the show, he’s able to share the connection of the Noor by having these powers and newfound abilities.

    Rish Shah

    He does add that Kamran’s moral compass isn’t as straightforward as Kamala’s, who has a good head on her shoulders. That distinction, especially with their very different family dynamics, adds to him actually being a guy with good intentions.

    He definitely has a skewed moral compass and he’s definitely a bit more unsure of where he stands, but he does make that decision really early on to betray his family and protect Kamala. So that’s quite a big decision, and hopefully, that shows that he’s actually a good guy with good intentions.

    Rish Shah

    Shah also shared how he interpreted Kamran’s motivation and generally how he was inspired to tackle the character for his first live-action venture.

    Yeah, I played it as genuine in my mind, but it’s nice that it’s up for debate. It’s always interesting when you have a character with a bit more complexity to them and their intentions, so it’s nice that it can swing both ways. Hopefully, it’s more engaging and interesting. But in my mind, he was genuinely just connecting with someone. Iman said this before about Kamala, but she hasn’t been able to spend time in her high school life around someone else who is able to just openly and confidently talk about their culture, specifically. So I think Kamran has felt the same way.

    Rish Shah

    The series ended in a way that opens up on a way to allow his character to further develop in whichever direction he wants. He could potentially become a member of the Red Dagger to find his own place in the world, or perhaps even further explore what exactly the Noor universe is all about. So, they definitely left the door open for many different angles to take the character.

    Source: The Hollywood Reporter

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ Director Teases Kamala Will Gain Even More “Spectacular Power” in the Future

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ Director Teases Kamala Will Gain Even More “Spectacular Power” in the Future

    Ms. Marvel recently ended its run on Disney+ as one of the most critically well-received Marvel Cinematic Universe. The series made viewers fall in love with Kamala Khan and get invested in the mysterious unraveling of what exactly her powers are. By the end of the show, audiences are already excited at seeing what comes next for Kamala in The Marvels. Iman Vellani will star alongside Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel, who appeared in the final post-credits scene of Ms. Marvel.

    Kamala’s powers in the MCU raised a lot of eyebrows and questions. First, there were significantly different from the abilities and origin she had in the comics. But Ms. Marvel also dropped the huge fact that Kamala may be a mutant in the MCU, and it never fully explained her powers and her Clandestine background. Some of this was due to time constraints for the series, but the series’ director Adil El Arbi recently told The Direct that fans have quite a bit to look forward to regarding Kamala’s powers going forward. El Arbi stated:

    And I think, power-wise, we saw just the tip of the iceberg of Kamala Khan. I think there is so much more she can do, and on that front, I think there’s a big road for that, some more spectacular power.”

    Adil El Arbi

    Considering Kamala’s powers were introduced and developed in a fairly unique way in the MCU, it makes sense that we are not done learning about them. The series’ creators previously mentioned that Ms. Marvel’s new MCU powers were, in part, meant to help the character fit in better with The Marvels. Director Billal Fallah added that her power growth will result in “a great can of action sequences.” The promise of Kamala’s abilities evolution certainly begs the question of whether she will ultimately have powers on par with Captain Marvel, who is arguably one of the strongest characters in the MCU.

    Ms. Marvel is now streaming in its entirety on Disney+. The Marvels is scheduled to hit theaters on July 28, 2023.

    Source: The Direct

  • SDCC Will Require a Health Pass and Mask for Attendance

    SDCC Will Require a Health Pass and Mask for Attendance

    Those planning on attending San Diego Comic-Con will have to adhere to health and safety protocols. It was announced today that anyone attending San Diego Comic-Con – whether it be fans or vendors – will be required to wear a mask while in attendance. All parties will also be required to provide verification that they are fully vaccinated or provide proof of a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours.

    Attendees will need to download a health pass through Clear, which will be used to verify testing and/or vaccination status while at the convention. All of those who follow protocol and verify that they’re either vaccinated and/or negative with their health pass will then be given a wristband allowing entry into the convention. There will reportedly be three wristband stations on site to try and make things move smoother. Interestingly, though, there’s no mention of testing being provided on-site.

    Those that do not adhere to the health and safety protocols in place will be removed from the convention – this includes those that opt to remove their face masks. “This policy is in place to ensure the health and safety of all fans. Security will be on-site to support adherence to the policy.”

    In order to avoid any confusion, Comic-Con has made it clear, too, that masks will need to cover the nose and mouth completely and fit snugly against the sides of the face.

    The decision to enforce masks at the convention shouldn’t be too surprising, of course. California is still a hotspot for COVID, and in a space where people are often on top of one another, it is important to try to keep all in attendance safe, especially as the BA.5 variant is going around.

    This year’s Comic-Con kicks off on July 21st and runs through July 24th.