Benedict Cumberbatch recently spilled the beans on major plot points for Avengers: Secret Wars and Avengers: Doomsday, along with teasing the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and its X-Men era. Marvel and Kevin Feige seem to have taken this in stride, perhaps even orchestrating such reveals as part of their broader strategy to manage public attention and narrative focus.
Conspiracy Theory? Doctor Strange's Absence in Doomsday
Is there more to Doctor Strange's absence in Avengers: Doomsday than meets the eye? Cumberbatch hinted that his character's exclusion stems from the film's narrative shift, originally planned as part of the Kang Dynasty but now pivoting to Doomsday. This change also affected Shang-Chi's role, who was initially set to be a key player alongside Kang the Conqueror.
The recast of Kang with Victor Von Doom and the return of Robert Downey Jr. mark significant alterations to the storyline. These shifts suggest a move away from the Time Runs Out storyline, aiming instead towards a battle world scenario that leads directly into Secret Wars. The plot now seems to center around the Fantastic Four and Doctor Doom, with a focus on the multiverse collapsing into a singular battle world.
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Spider-Man, Not Iron Man
With Doctor Strange out of the picture, the narrative spotlight shifts to Spider-Man, who might be the MCU's "anchor being" as hinted by Kevin Feige. This shift suggests a storyline where Doctor Doom targets this anchor, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation. The absence of Doctor Strange in Doomsday could be a strategic move to introduce him in a post-credits scene, setting up the transition to Secret Wars.
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Secret Wars
In Secret Wars, the multiverse collapses, leading to a battle world scenario with a new cast of characters, including legacy actors from pre-MCU Marvel films. This event serves as a soft reboot for the MCU, integrating a mix of surviving MCU characters and familiar faces from the past. Cumberbatch's revelations indicate a significant shift towards a multiverse Avengers team-up, reminiscent of Endgame but on a grander scale.
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The Future of MCU and Doctor Strange
Looking ahead, Cumberbatch teased that Doctor Strange will play a pivotal role in the MCU's upcoming X-Men era. This could involve integrating Doctor Strange into X-Men-centric narratives, possibly leading to significant developments in Phase 7, including an Avengers vs. X-Men storyline.
Regarding Doctor Strange 3, the film's release has been delayed, potentially aligning with Secret Wars. This delay suggests a shift in focus from the incursions plot to something more aligned with the X-Men and possibly introducing characters from the magical side of the Marvel universe. Cumberbatch's enthusiasm hints at a broader role for Doctor Strange, positioning him as a central figure in the MCU's future.
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Cumberbatch's comments also open up possibilities for a Midnight Suns storyline, potentially featuring characters like Moon Knight and even bringing back Ghost Rider, as hinted by Ryan Reynolds. These developments suggest a rich tapestry of narratives and character interactions that could redefine the MCU's direction post-Secret Wars.
Image: ensigame.com
Image: ensigame.com
