Bautista's MCU Return: Reviving an 8-Year-Old X-Men Villain with the Guardians of the Galaxy Star

Dave Bautista, known for his role as Drax in the MCU, expressed his interest in playing a villain in future Marvel projects. Despite the formation of a new Guardians team at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the fate of characters like Drax and Nebula remains uncertain as none of the original team members died in the movie. Speculation continues as to whether they will appear in future projects.

In an interview with io9, Dave Bautista confirmed that his time as Drax has come to an end. However, he shared his desire to explore a different Marvel movie role. Interestingly, a character from a flawed X-Men movie could offer Bautista the opportunity to fulfill his goals while avoiding some of the issues he faced playing Drax.

Bautista Is Done With Drax, But Not With Superhero Movies

Dave Bautista as Drax looking surprised in Guardians of the Galaxy - Bautista Is Done With Drax, But Not With Superhero Movies

Bautista has made it clear that he plans to move on from his role as Drax after Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. However, what comes as a surprise is his eagerness to take on another Marvel character so soon. In a recent io9 interview, Bautista revealed his interest in exploring different and more substantial roles in future superhero movies. He expressed his desire to portray a menacing villain in the superhero universe.

Furthermore, Bautista disclosed that he maintains regular communication with Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige and executive producer Louis D'Esposito, with their most recent interaction occurring just two weeks prior to the interview. They are aware of his interest in potential future opportunities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The challenge now lies in how Bautista, who is easily recognizable even under the Drax makeup, can transition into a new role seamlessly. Luckily, the X-Men franchise offers a plethora of complex villains with distinctive appearances that could provide a suitable alternative for Bautista.

Apocalypse Meets Bautista's Criteria For A Deeper Role

Oscar Isaac's Apocalypse yelling in X-Men Apocalypse - Apocalypse Meets Bautista's Criteria For A Deeper Role

Magneto is the X-Men's most famous villain, sometimes even considered an ally. However, in recent years, the character of Apocalypse, also known as En Sabah Nur, has been given new depth. In the disappointing X-Men: Apocalypse, the titular villain is poorly explained and only driven by a desire for destruction and power. This portrayal does not do justice to Apocalypse in Marvel Comics, where he has been depicted as a more complex character operating in shades of gray.

In modern X-Men comics lore, Apocalypse has transformed from a harbinger of destruction to a villain willing to go beyond traditional definitions of hero and villain for the sake of mutant survival. While the concept of "doing whatever it takes" is not new for a villain, Apocalypse has been written with more depth than most. If he were to appear in the MCU, Dave Bautista could bring to life a character that defies categorization and embodies the ominous and emotionally complex nature of Apocalypse's goals.

X-Men: Apocalypse's Villain Complaint Is Perfect For Bautista's Discomfort With Long Makeup Processes

A close-up of Apocalypse looking disappointed in X-Men Apocalypse - X-Men: Apocalypse's Villain Complaint Is Perfect For Bautista's Discomfort With Long Makeup Processes

Oscar Isaac's undeniable talent as an actor has been showcased in various projects, including his leading role in Marvel's Moon Knight. However, even his skills were unable to salvage a poor script and inadequate makeup that missed the mark. In Marvel Comics, Apocalypse is depicted as a massive, formidable mutant with a physical presence that matches his power and intellect. Unfortunately, X-Men: Apocalypse's portrayal fell short, resembling more of a Power Ranger villain. If Apocalypse were to return in the MCU, it would be beneficial to utilize CGI and motion capture, similar to Thanos, for a more effective depiction.

The potential recasting of Dave Bautista as Drax is significant for two reasons. Despite maintaining an impressive physique, Bautista has expressed reluctance in keeping up his professional wrestling-level body as he enters his mid-50s. This reluctance played a role in his decision to step away from the role of Drax. Introducing a CGI character with Bautista's likeness would alleviate the physical strain on the actor. Additionally, portraying a digital version of the X-Men "villain" would help disguise his appearance and ease the transition back into the MCU following his portrayal of Drax.

Source: io9

Editor's P/S:

Dave Bautista's departure from the role of Drax is both surprising and understandable. His desire to explore new and more substantial characters is commendable, especially considering his impressive acting abilities. While it's sad to see him leave the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, it's exciting to think about what the future holds for him in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The suggestion that Bautista could play Apocalypse in an upcoming X-Men movie is intriguing. The character's complex motivations and enigmatic nature would be a great fit for Bautista's talents. Additionally, using CGI and motion capture to portray Apocalypse would allow Bautista to distance himself from his Drax persona while still maintaining his physical presence. It would be fascinating to see Bautista bring Apocalypse to life in a way that honors the character's comic book legacy while also adding his own unique spin.