Article Key Points
Marvel Studios is considering bringing back the original lineup of Avengers for another movie, deviating from current plans.
This decision would circumvent Jonathan Majors' portrayal of Kang as the upcoming prominent antagonist, while also resolving the legal complications involving Majors.
Reviving the original cast encounters challenges like actors distancing themselves from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and substantial expenses in production.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been witnessing a decline in success since the release of The Avengers movies. Recent information suggests that Marvel Studios is contemplating the return of Iron Man played by Robert Downey Jr. and Black Widow portrayed by Scarlett Johansson. However, this endeavor may not be straightforward.
The success of the MCU franchise can be attributed to The Avengers, which served as a launching pad for Marvel Studios. With Iron Man portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. taking the lead in 2008, the franchise introduced its major characters and eventually brought them together in 2012's The Avengers. This marked the beginning of a series of films that culminated in Avengers: Endgame, which became the highest-grossing movie of all time. Since reaching this pinnacle, the studio has faced greater challenges than anticipated, stemming from various factors.
According to an insider close to Variety, recent reports suggest that Marvel Studios may be considering making another Avengers movie with the original lineup of heroes. This is in contrast to their current plans for Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars. It would also involve bringing back two Avengers characters who died in Avengers: Endgame - Tony Stark (Iron Man) and Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow).
The insider suggests that these changes would allow Marvel Studios to avoid focusing on Jonathan Majors' Kang as the next major villain in the MCU. This decision comes after negative reviews for Ant-Man 3, which featured Majors' Kang, surprised the studio. Additionally, Majors is currently facing legal trouble, which may make the alternative option more appealing for the studio.
Bringing the original cast back would be a significant change for Feige. He initially intended to eliminate Thor and Captain America in Avengers: Endgame, as described by the Russo brothers, in an attempt to remove all the OGs from the equation. However, fortunately, the director duo decided against this drastic measure and instead presented a sufficiently emotional storyline that fans enjoyed in theaters. There are also obstacles to consider for this ambitious revival, such as some of the actors being content to step away from the MCU and the high costs associated with top stars' involvement. Notably, Downey Jr.'s participation alone would likely exceed $25 million, which clashes with the studio's efforts to reduce production costs.
Though bringing back the original Avengers is a bold move, it becomes increasingly tempting as The Marvels risks underperforming on its opening weekend, and even the Disney Plus Marvel projects receive mixed reviews, at best. Only time will tell if the studio will proceed with this plan and if the magic of the first three phases can be recaptured.
The Avengers franchise is currently available for streaming on Disney Plus.
Source: Variety
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the potential return of the original Avengers lineup in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). On the one hand, I understand the desire to recapture the magic of the early MCU films, which were incredibly successful and beloved by fans. On the other hand, I worry that bringing back the same characters and actors could feel repetitive and unoriginal.
I think it's important for Marvel Studios to take risks and introduce new characters and stories to the MCU. While it's always fun to see familiar faces, I don't want the franchise to become stagnant. I'm excited to see what the future holds for the MCU, and I hope that Marvel Studios can find a way to balance nostalgia with innovation.