Murphy's Multiverse

Tag: MCU

  • Bollywood Star Farhan Akhtar Cast in MS(terious) Marvel Role

    Bollywood Star Farhan Akhtar Cast in MS(terious) Marvel Role

    It is being reported by The Times of India and India Today that top Indian Actor Farhan Akhtar has been cast in a Marvel project and is currently in Bangkok, Thailand to film. Ms. Marvel, being the only Marvel project currently filming in the country, seems to be the obvious choice for this cast addition.

    Confirming the news, a source close to the development said, “Farhan is currently stationed in Bangkok, along with an international cast and crew, for the shoot of a project with Marvel Studios. All other details of the project are strictly under wraps.”

    From India Today and Times of India

    Farhan Akhtar on his career's top moments and Priyanka Chopra | Bollywood – Gulf News

    No word yet on the role that Akhtar is playing but given his popularity and talent it is likely to be a significant one in the series. He recently appeared in The Sky is Pink with Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Akhtar has a starring role in the upcoming sports drama Toofaan directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.

    Ms. Marvel is currently filming and expected to release in late 2021.

     

    Source: Times of India, India Today

  • ‘Black Widow’s May Have Tripled Its Potential Box Office Through the Delay

    ‘Black Widow’s May Have Tripled Its Potential Box Office Through the Delay

    Godzilla vs. Kong may have finally achieved what seemed impossible a few months ago. It garnered more than $300M worldwide in the first two weeks, which seemed to imply the potential of releasing films in theaters and on streaming services simultaneously instead of delaying. Yet, it looks like an early analysis has pointed to Marvel Studios’ choice to delay Black Widow into July may have been a blessing in disguise.

    According to The Numbers, their predictions have moved the film’s Box Office from $45M up to $135M. As Observer points out, it is a far cry from its original 300M+ opening during non-pandemic times, but it might become the largest opening since cinemas closed last year. Currently, 55% of cinemas are only opening with reduced seating. It is uncertain how much that will change by then. Plus, it is mostly focusing on its domestic debut, which also opens up the question of how it’ll expand internationally.

    The interesting aspect is that this potential uptick in Box Office numbers would also take into account that the film will be available through Disney+ Premier Access. This development may also be a clear sign that Shang-Chi and the Legend of Ten Rings will be a theatre-only release once it premieres in September. It explains why there was no mention of it during the announcement. We have to keep in mind that anything can happen until it releases, but it is a positive development and is a sign that the delays are slowly coming to an end. Other tentpole releases for 2021 are also seeing better predictions for now. So, let’s be hopeful that we are entering a new age once more.

    Source: The Numbers via Observer

  • RUMOR: Ryan Reynolds ‘Deadpool’ R-Rated Series In Development for Hulu

    RUMOR: Ryan Reynolds ‘Deadpool’ R-Rated Series In Development for Hulu

    We have seen quite an R-rated animation boom. It has also gotten the attention of the comic book industry. DC’s animated series Harley Quinn offered a rather bloody look at Gotham and its villains with enough humor to balance its bubbly characters. It looks like it may have also gotten Marvel and Marvel Studios’ attention that there is a potential market here. The site Bubbleblabber reported on the recent news that Disney started the 20th Century Animation studio. In the Deadline report, they’ve revealed that various new projects are n development. They would join the currently produced eleven shows, such as Family Guy, Bob’s Burgers, Central Park, and many more. According to the site Bubbleblabber, one of those mystery projects is an R-rated Deadpool series starring Ryan Reynolds, who may be in talks for the titular role.

    It is interesting to note that Deadpool 3 is in active development, as we know they are already preparing the script for the film, which will be part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There was no mention of this series that will connect to the MCU. If they manage to get Ryan Reynolds involved, it would be a creative way to continue Deadpool’s adventures in the MCU. It isn’t the first attempt at an R-rated adaptation of the Merc with a Mouth. Donald Glover was developing a series for FXX alongside Marvel Television. The series was going to be run by him and his brother Stephen Glover. We have no further news on this new adaptation. So, it could be in a very early conceptual stage. We have to this news with a grain of salt for now.

    Source: Deadline, Bubbleblabber, Inverse

  • ‘CAPTAIN MARVEL 2’ Filming Next Week Under Working Title “Goat Rodeo”

    ‘CAPTAIN MARVEL 2’ Filming Next Week Under Working Title “Goat Rodeo”

    There was an unfortunate mix-up a couple of weeks ago, with a previous report that the working title of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was “Goat Rodeo.” It’s been discovered recently, however, that this is incorrect. LRM Online posted on March 16th that “Goat Rodeo” is actually the working title of Captain Marvel 2. I’ve done some research and found ample evidence of my own to back up their claim. We’ve also recently learned that Captain Marvel 2 (aka Warbird II Productions) will be briefly filming some aerial shots in New Jersey next week under the working title “Goat Rodeo.” It’s important to note these are likely establishing shots or VFX work and that no actors will be present.

    With Captain Marvel 2 going by “Goat Rodeo”, we can also confirm that Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is using the working title “Dust Bunny.” Both productions are expected to begin principal photography this summer with Captain Marvel 2 scheduled for a November 11, 2022 release. 

  • ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ Funko Pop Leak Confirms Dragon

    ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ Funko Pop Leak Confirms Dragon

    It looks like the trend continues that the rest of 2021’s Marvel Studios films are being revealed through toy leaks. We are still anxiously awaiting a trailer for Eternals and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, which are set to release later this year. Especially, Shang-Chi was originally going to release in July before Black Widow took over the date. Even as we wait, it looks like we are getting a closer look at the film’s cast through toy leaks.

    We got a first look at an action sequence featuring a dragon through LEGO sets and the Marvel Legends series revealed the Mandarin’s new adaptation of his iconic ten rings. LEGO hasn’t always been the most trustworthy reflection of a film or project, but it looks like that dragon was real, as a leak for the Funko set reveals a dragon named The Great Protector. The shared tweet by @SCBRMdia was brought to our attention by a Discord user from our own server.

    The dragon’s inclusion once again confirms our report from some time ago about the inclusion of the Valley of Sleeping Dragons, where our titular hero will come face-to-face with the beast of Chinese mythology. The name would imply a good-natured dragon and there is still the potential of Fin Fang Foom showing up. It would be amazing if we get a showdown between these two massive dragons. The set also includes another look at the various characters that round out the cast. Hopefully, we’ll get a trailer for the film sooner rather than later to kick off the new Marvel Studios season in cinemas.

    Source: Twitter

  • ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’s Cinematographer Sean Bobbitt Joins ‘Captain Marvel 2’

    ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’s Cinematographer Sean Bobbitt Joins ‘Captain Marvel 2’

    Here’s an interesting detail that found its way online but somehow flew under everyone’s radar. Thank you to @GemBiscuits for bringing it to your attention. Cinematographer Sean Bobbitt has left quite an impact in the industry with his work on projects like The Place Beyond the Pines, Shame, 12 Years a Slave, and the recently released Judas and the Black Messiah. It looks like the industry veteran has set his sights on his next major project, as he seemingly has joined Nia DaCosta‘s untitled Captain Marvel 2 sequel. In two separate interviews, he pointed out his involvement with the project. When BTL was asked about recording from COVID, he revealed his involvement.

    I’m hoping to get back. I’m sort of signed up to shoot Captain Marvel II, so that will be a real change for me. It’s a very different type of film to what I usually make, and I’m very excited to be part of that.

    He also confirmed his involvement with the sequel in the GCS Podcast. As he points out, it is quite a departure from his usual projects. Captain Marvel‘s sequel will probably continue the more space-focused story. Bobbitt has pointed out that the CGI world he is about to enter might be his biggest worry, as he wants to keep the focus on the people. It looks like the upcoming sequel might be a departure from the previous entry that can take Brie Larson‘s character to new highs and add a unique visual style that Marvel Studios has yet to truly explore.

    So far, we know that Teyonah Parris is reprising her role from WandaVision as Monica Rambeau. Iman Vellani will also play Kamala Khan following her Ms. Marvel Disney+ series. Zawe Ashton has also joined the project in a villainous role, which is still being kept a secret. The project is shaping up to be quite an interesting addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and we cannot wait to see what the sequel has to offer.

    Source: BTL News, GCS Podcast

  • Gugu Mbatha-Raw’s ‘LOKI’ Role Revealed

    Gugu Mbatha-Raw’s ‘LOKI’ Role Revealed

    Marvel Studios had been hoping to work with Gugu Mbatha-Raw for quite some time but things never quite lined up. The stars aligned and Mbatha-Raw landed a major role in the upcoming Disney Plus streaming series, Loki, and what a role it is. According to Disney, the actress is playing a character named Judge Renslayer and that almost certainly makes her Ravonna Renslayer, the great love interest of Kang the Conqueror!

    Image

    The news comes via Fandango’s Managing Editor, Erik Davis, and seems like a pretty big reveal considering who she is. We’ve heard rumors that Jonathan Majors’ Kang would appear in Loki and if this Renslayer is indeed Ravonna, it erases almost all doubt that he’ll show up. The two have had a long and twisted history over the years as Kang’s love went mostly unrequited (and she may have even killed him once). Fans might be more familiar with Ravonna from her role in Kang’s arc on Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes where she was kept in stasis due to injuries sustained from the temporal anomaly caused by Captain America’s reemergence into the timeline. While she spent her entire time there on the shelf, be sure that Ravonna can handle herself and has proven to be arguably Kang’s most persistent and competent foe over the years. We’ll have to wait to see if Gugu’s character is Ravonna or a descendant or ancestor (time stuff, you know) but this seems like it could be a major ongoing role in the MCU.

  • ‘Falcon and the Winter Soldier’: Zemo Did It Again

    ‘Falcon and the Winter Soldier’: Zemo Did It Again

    Nowadays, a good television show is not always defined by its main characters. Sometimes as a supporting act, one character can change the game. Baron Zemo strolled into the third episode of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier has given the show a jolt of swag. Once again, Zemo gets what he wants without having to get physical with an Avenger. Sam and Bucky need him. Plus, Barnes is desperate to atone for his prior sins that he breaks Zemo out. This episode is Daniel Brühl shooting from half-court like he’s Steph Curry.

     

    The Falcon and the Winter Soldier Actor Daniel Bruhl Teases Zemo's MCU Return - ComictaQ

     

    As they’re going to Madripoor, we get a call back to Captain America Winter Soldier, when Sam and Zemo are ribbing Bucky for not liking the Troubleman soundtrack. We get the iconic line from the Baron that even Sam ends up agreeing to:

    It’s a masterpiece, James. Complete. Comprehensive. It captures the African American experience.

    Even in an episode filled to the brim with action and Sharon Carter’s return, Zemo was the main event. He revealed himself to be a Baron embracing his comic origins. We even see him don the purple mask that the iconic villain wore in the comics. Not just that, Zemo is rich with a collection of classic cars and a private plane. We get a hilarious scene of him dancing in the club like no one is watching. We have to say that it is villainy you have to respect. There is no doubt that he’ll betray Sam and Bucky, and we cannot wait to see it happen.

     

    The Falcon and the Winter Soldier' Episode 3 Review - Baron Zemo Rising | DiscussingFilm

     

    Later, as the crew catches up to Wilfred Nagel, who is the creator of the new super-soldier serum, we know Zemo will probably try and kill the scientist. Zemo still hates the idea of powered individuals. True to form, the Baron shoots Nagel after the mad scientist reveals his work. Even with that happening, our heroes have no time to reprimand Zemo as bounty hunters from all over are coming for them. He provides the shots to get the squad free and the getaway car to freedom. His appearance gets summed up by the end of the episode, as Ayo of the Dora Milaje reveals she is here for him.

    Baron Zemo provides both humor and zest. One can only wonder how much chaos Zemo will cause going forward. It opens up some questions regarding the next three episodes:

    • When is John Walker going to snap? We only briefly see John and Lemar hot on the tail of the Flag Smashers. The new Captain America gets all hot and bothered when he didn’t get answers. That dark turn is coming soon.
    • Is Sharon working for someone? Sharon has another agenda going on as she speaks to someone on the phone regarding Sam and Bucky. Is she involved with the power broker, or is she the power broker? One has to wonder.

     

    The Falcon and The Winter Soldier: Zemo's Mask References Classic Marvel Villain

     

    • Did Karli Morgenthau just break bad? There was a sense earlier that Karli & co. were freedom fighters with a worthy cause. After their actions in episode three of blowing up and killing guards, how far are they willing to go to achieve their goal?
    • What is Zemo’s master plan? He states that he is looking forward to coming face-to-face with Karli. One has to assume Zemo wants all of these super soldiers dead. How does he get that job done? The Machiavellian Baron has to be up to no good for anyone involved but his ends.

     

    The Falcon and the Winter Soldier's Baron Zemo is Marvel's Next Meme Machine

     

    • Is Sam going to get a better handle on things? This episode felt like more of a backseat for Sam, literally. He drank some snake guts and dressed like a pimp. So, let us hope he has some more substantial scenes and moments next week.
  • How Sokovia Continues to Shape the MCU Into ‘Falcon and Winter Soldier’ And Beyond

    How Sokovia Continues to Shape the MCU Into ‘Falcon and Winter Soldier’ And Beyond

    The first two series by Marvel Studios have a curious connection. They both heavily feature a former resident of Sokovia. The fictional country was the main focus during Avengers: Age of Ultron, where the titular villain turned the small European country into a meteor. Its fallout was felt throughout the series, as it leads to the introduction of the Sokovia Accords. In a way, this event still echoes to this day. WandaVision even offered a brief glimpse of Wanda’s youth in the war-torn country. We haven’t gotten a flashback to Zemo’s life, but it looks like he was a wealthy baron. We are learning a lot since we were first introduced to the country six years ago. Even after all this time, it looks like it’ll continue to impact the MCU moving forward.

     

    Where is Sokovia supposed to be? Real filming locations explored

     

    Now, we know that Wanda will potentially take on a unique role moving forward. The post-credit sequence of WandaVision hinted at her potentially breaking the multiverse to find her children, which will lead us into Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The tragedy that she lived through was the catalyst for her path to becoming the Scarlet Witch. Even with a short glimpse into the life of Sokovia, we came to understand the hardships she went through. The event would set her down the road to joining HYDRA, fighting the Avengers before becoming one. Who would’ve thought a small girl from Sokovia could become the end of the multiverse.

    Zemo’s effects on the Avengers cannot be understated. The now-Baron was able to tear apart the superhero team from within. He still proves his influence in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, as we see him pretty much take over Bucky and Sam’s mission. Zemo got showcased as a force of nature that finds a way out. In a way, I believe the whole opening of the latest episode showcases he doesn’t need help. He was waiting for something to do, as he once referenced that he is a man with time. We sadly never got a follow-up to his moment with T’Challa and how his actions may have given Zemo a new view on life. He might have some big plans once these events end. 

     

    Zemo seems like he's visiting a Sokovian memorial here : MarvelStudiosSpoilers

     

    It’s fascinating how we still feel consequences up to this day. They realized that it’s not just the Avengers’ inability to protect that country but also how its tragedies before their arrival shape people. Wanda and Zemo seem likely to continue down their respective paths of shaping the future of the franchise. A throwaway line that Sokovia does not exist anymore, as the neighboring countries seized its lands, could even imply the arrival of other threats. There is one iconic Eastern European fiction country that might be getting hinted at with this line. No matter how much time passes, Sokovia’s downfall will always be one of the Avengers’ biggest failures that will continue to haunt for years to come.

  • REPORT: Olga Kurylenko to Appear in ‘Black Widow’

    REPORT: Olga Kurylenko to Appear in ‘Black Widow’

    Black Widow will finally release in July. After all this time, we are so close to actually watching the film either in theaters or on Disney+. Of course, there is always the fear that the longer we wait, the more information hits the web. Well, it looks like that has happened as The Direct has exclusively learned that Quantum of Solace‘s Olga Kurylenko will have a role in the first film of Marvel Studios’ Phase 4. The Ukrainian actress is a perfect choice for the Russian-focused story with her history and fluency in Russian. So, there is a good chance she is playing one of the many newly introduced assassins of the Red Room that we saw in the trailers.

    Kurylenko has also appeared in 2013’s Oblivion opposite of Tom Cruise. Her latest projects include The Bay of Silence, The Translators, and Sentinelle. As The Direct points out, there are many angles they can take with her inclusion. She could be involved with a flashback to Romanoff’s upbringing. We could also potentially see her be one of the many trained assassins with them believing she is a prime candidate for the role of Red Widow.

    The film has been ready for over a year. We are still not certain who is behind Taskmaster’s mask. It is refreshing to know that there are still many surprises heading our way once it releases in July. Its release date may also finalize the future slate, as we hopefully get trailers that showcase upcoming projects like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Eternals. The year isn’t over yet and there is a lot more Marvel heading our way in the near future.

    Source: The Direct