Marvel StudiosPresident Kevin Feige seems to have things all figured out when it comes to the future of these massively popular comic book movies. Well, at the very least, he’s extremely adept at making it look like he has it all figured out. As a result, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (which now includes their new Disney Plus shows likeThe Falcon and the Winter Soldierand now the rather “out with a whimper” seriesLoki), has a pretty clearly defined future as it powers through its 4th phase of projects, and it turns out they’ll be sharing a bit of a theme.
While the Marvel Cinematic Universe hasn’t always been under the same leadership, it’s always been divided into phases right from the start. From the firstIron Manin 2008 all the way toAvengers: Endgameand beyond, every phase begins with some standalone films and ends with a big ensemble blowout with quips and banter aplenty. Phase 4’s main difference so far is that it launched via several TV shows before premiering its first movie (theprequel filmBlack Widow), but now that it’s in full swing, things are ready to really begin.
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In a recent interview with Rotten Tomatoes, Feige clarified what he believes is the overarching theme of the MCU’s current phase. “Truthfully, Phase Four was always about continuing in new ways and new beginnings,” he explained. “Even with films that seemingly are concluding storylines, there are new beginnings within them.” After 3 phases largely revolving around the same core cast of characters with the occasional newbie joining the fray, focusing entirely on the new kids might be exactlywhat the MCU needsto keep things fresh going forward.
While there have been plenty of longer-running franchises out there, Marvel as a whole has all the others beat when it comes to the sheer volume of projects under its banner. To put it in perspective, imagine if every singleJames Bondmovie ever made had come out in the span of just over a decade rather than the 60-year history it currently boasts. Even then, Marvel would quickly have it beat, with highly anticipated movies likeShang-Chiandsimilarly awaited shows likeShe-Hulklooming on the horizon.
Even though Marvel is pretty much as mainstream as it gets nowadays, it’s still accomplished one heck of a feat (or several, if each phase is its own feat, because getting annoyingly technical is fun). Some might be experiencing some burnout on the series, but the idea of focusing almost entirely on new beginnings, as Feige said, might be exactly what the franchise needs to keep people interested. If not, thenthere’s alwaysStar Warsfor those who’d rather complain about other things.
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