Marvel Studios has recently faced a series of challenges following the premiere of 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, some of which are the result of self-inflicted wounds. This has prompted internal discussions about significant narrative shifts. A detailed report from Variety have shed light on potential upheavals within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, most notably involving the pivotal villain Kang the Conqueror, portrayed by Jonathan Majors.
The powerhouse behind the multi-billion-dollar superhero cinematic universe that has captivated audiences for over a decade recently went on a retreat in Palm Springs, setting the stage for crucial conversations.
Between Jonathan Majors’ still-ongoing legal troubles and the underwhelming performance of several projects, further highlighted by Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, executives reportedly contemplated a major pivot away from the Kang storyline, who the studio had earmarked as a central antagonist in the Multiverse Saga, which will culminate in the upcoming The Kang Dynasty and Secret Wars films. This consideration extended to potentially recasting the character or, more drastically, shifting the narrative focus to another formidable villain: Doctor Doom.
Doctor Doom, the infamous nemesis of the Fantastic Four, presents an interesting alternative. Marvel officially regained the rights to the Fantastic Four and their rogues’ gallery following Disney’s acquisition of Fox in March 2019, opening up new narrative possibilities. A Fantastic Four film directed by Matt Shakman after Jon Watts dropped out, is already in its early development stages. Additionally, Deadpool and the X-Men are slated for integration into the MCU by way of the oft-delayed MCU film, Deadpool 3, so it’s not like Doctor Doom’s rise will feel forced, especially if it’s executed right. If anything, his entry into the MCU is both timely and strategic, especially as the overarching villain.
Furthermore, Marvel Studios has toyed with other equally dramatic ideas, including reuniting the original Avengers cast from the 2012 film. This ambitious move would involve resurrecting two key figures: Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man and Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow. These characters’ arcs concluded in Avengers: Endgame following heroic sacrifices. Despite the high costs and contractual complexities, this nostalgia-infused direction reflects Marvel’s willingness to explore radical solutions to recapture the magic of the Infinity Saga.
Replacing Kang, even if it’s Doctor Doom, isn’t a cakewalk. It’ll be just as difficult as the time heist that the Avengers had to pull off to save the universe in Endgame. Keep in mind that the MCU has spent the better part of the past three years establishing Kang as a formidable presence. His appearance in Loki and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, among others, complicates things. Furthermore, the upcoming finale of Season 2 of Loki is expected to further cement Kang’s role as the big bad of Phases 4 through 6 of the MCU. Any shift in narrative focus would require deft storytelling to the established canon, which is further complicated by the fact that the MCU can’t exactly steer away from its current direction due to the ongoing strikes.
Jonathan Majors’ off-screen issues have undoubtedly compounded the predicament for Marvel Studios. His arrest on domestic violence charges, although he has maintained his innocence, has cast a shadow over his continued presence in the MCU. Prior to the arrest, sources indicated that Marvel was already contemplating a narrative shift due to the box office figures posted by Quantumania, suggesting that the studio’s concerns extend beyond Majors’ legal woes.
The introduction of Doctor Doom as a central antagonist isn’t without precedent. The character, whose real name is Victor von Doom, is a genius-level inventor and sorcerer, making him a formidable adversary for the MCU’s heroes. He is a pivotal figure in Marvel Comics, often depicted as the ruler of the fictional nation of Latveria. His complex character, marked by a blend of nobility and villainy, could offer the MCU a fresh and nuanced antagonist.
In the wake of these developments, Marvel Studios is at a crossroads. The path they choose could significantly reshape the Multiverse Saga and the broader narrative arc of the MCU. Whether they opt to stay the course with Kang, pivot to Doctor Doom, or explore other alternatives, the decisions made now will have far-reaching implications for the beloved superhero universe and its legions of fans.
For now, Marvel fans can look forward to The Marvels, which comes out on November 10.
