The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone a significant evolution since its early phases, moving away from its structured TV-like format. While the initial phases maintained a clear narrative arc with interconnected stories, leading up to epic season finales like 'The Avengers,' 'Age of Ultron,' and the 'Infinity War'/'Endgame' duo, the recent films have taken a different approach.
The post-'Endgame' era has seen a shift towards standalone superhero adventures, lacking the cohesive supernarrative that once tied the MCU together. This change has resulted in a mixed bag of stories, with some fascinating new additions like 'Eternals,' 'Thunderbolts,' and 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps,' but it has also left fans yearning for the interconnectedness that defined the franchise.
Additionally, the MCU has faced criticism for producing rushed and uninspired sequels, along with Disney+ shows that have failed to capture the imagination of audiences. This has led to a decline in fan interest over the years, with many feeling that the franchise has lost its way.
However, amidst these challenges, the MCU has introduced intriguing new characters and ideas that deserve further exploration. Here are five characters we hope get the spotlight they deserve in Phase Six:
Eros / Starfox:
Chloé Zhao's 'Eternals' is a masterpiece that delves into a much larger narrative than your typical superhero film. The film introduces us to the Eternals, immortal robots created by the godlike Celestials, who must navigate the challenges of evolution and their role in the universe. One of the most intriguing cameos in the film is Starfox, played by the charismatic Harry Styles. Starfox, or Eros as he is known in the comics, is a demigod with persuasive powers, and his appearance hints at a deeper connection to Thanos, the supervillain from 'Infinity War' and 'Endgame.' We want to see more of Eros and his role in the MCU, as it could provide valuable insights into Thanos' backstory and the presence of demigods in this universe.
Adam Warlock:
Adam Warlock, portrayed by Will Poulter in 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,' is a character with a rich history in the Marvel Comics. In the films, he is reduced to a mere enforcer, but his true potential lies in his broody, cosmic nature. Adam's ability to contemplate his existence and his role as a godlike entity sets him apart. In the comics, he possesses the Soul Gem, one of the powerful Infinity Gems, which adds a layer of complexity to his character. We hope to see a more faithful adaptation of Adam Warlock, exploring his unique powers and his place among the Guardians of the Galaxy, including Gamora and Drax.
Blade:
Blade, the half-human, half-vampire monster hunter, has a rich legacy in the Marvel universe. Played by Wesley Snipes in the early films, Blade has become an iconic character. Despite Marvel's announcement of a reboot starring Mahershala Ali, the project has faced delays and remains in the script phase. We believe Blade deserves a proper comeback, whether it's Snipes reprising his role or Ali's debut. Blade's potential as a unique and cool character should not be overlooked, and his addition to the Avengers ensemble would be a welcome change.
Wong:
Wong, portrayed by Benedict Wong, has made appearances in several 'Avengers' movies, showcasing his powerful sorcery alongside Doctor Strange. However, we want to see more of Wong's everyday life as the Sorcerer Supreme. What kind of wizardly bureaucracy does he navigate? Does he lead a team of wizards? How does the world of sorcerers function within the MCU? We hope to explore the depth of the magical realm and Wong's role as a key figure in it. The MCU has tried to explain its fantastical elements scientifically, but with characters like Wong, Agatha, and Doctor Strange, true magic and sorcery come to the forefront. Let's delve deeper into Wong's world and uncover its mysteries.
Howard the Duck:
Howard the Duck, an anthropomorphic waterfowl from another dimension, is a character with a unique and hilarious perspective. He has made brief appearances in 'Guardians of the Galaxy' and 'Avengers: Endgame,' but we believe he deserves his own movie. Howard's alcoholic and foul-mouthed nature, combined with his cosmic adventures, could provide a refreshing take on the MCU. With the franchise exploring the multiverse and introducing a wide array of characters, Howard could be the perfect voice of reason, or rather, unreason. He could serve as a self-deprecating narrator, acknowledging the absurdity of the MCU's world and its diverse cast of heroes and villains. Howard the Duck might just be the unconventional savior the MCU needs.
These characters, with their unique backgrounds and potential, could breathe new life into the MCU. We hope Phase Six gives them the screentime they deserve, offering fans a fresh and exciting experience.
