The Russo Brothers In-Talks With Marvel To Direct AVENGERS 3 And AVENGERS 4?

BadassDigest has one more bit of big Marvel news, they are reporting that The Russo Brothers are already in-talks to direct Avengers 3 and Avengers 4. This would mean that they'd be committed to making three more films for Marvel Studios. Which in my opinion is the best thing for Marvel, keep these two locked-down as your directing team. This would mean Joss Whedon wouldn't be directing future installments, leaving him free to direct other things.

How closely will Captain America 3 tie in with Avengers 3? I've been told that the Russo Brothers are in talks to direct Avengers 3 and possibly 4. Sources tell me that they're the favorites of Marvel right now and that they are the guys Kevin Feige want to pick up the mantle from Joss Whedon.

The directing siblings proved on so many levels they understand and cherish this source material. The Winter Soldier, gave us solid villains with while reintroducing us to heroes we thought we knew. Widow became a hardened badass and given the screen time/scenes she deserves. Rogers finally becomes the loveable righteous hero from the comics, we want to root for. Not just a snarky boy-scout which was shown in Avengers.

If this turns out to be true, I can't imagine how awesome future Avengers installments could be. The duo is already wowing me with how they're tackling Captain America 3, by incorporating the Civil War stuff. Something fans imagined would actually never happen.

Joss Whedon stepping aside and giving over the Avengers to the Russo Brothers makes sense. We know that Whedon isn't a fan of directing all these conflicting heroes and powers. He seemingly could want to tell a more linear type of superhero story. We know that he's been mulling around ideas for new Hulk film with Mark Ruffalo, starting back in 2012.

There is also the possibility of Whedon moving-on from Avengers to help Marvel make tough projects like Black Panther or Captain Marvel. We know that both are in active develop at the studio and have outlines/early drafts kicking-around. Whedon working his magic on those two heroes could be something extremely special. It's not a bad thing to see Joss move-on from Avengers, as long as he's sticking around for other things within the MCU.



SOURCE: BADASSDIGEST

RUMOR: Sony Allowing Spider-Man To Join Marvel Cinematic Universe And Will Recast For SINISTER SIX?

I'm going to be up-front, the following is a rumor and flagged as such by the source. HitFix is saying they are "hearing" but can't currently verify, that Sony is considering Spider-Man to join Marvel's Cinematic Universe. Let's be clear nothing is happening, these are only rumblings that Sony is thinking about this. Below is what Drew had to say about this rumor. 

"While I can't get the confirmations I need to verify the story, I'm hearing that there are some very cool "Spider-Man" plans being discussed that would help Sony refocus their enormously important franchise while also opening up some connections in the onscreen Marvel movie universe that would blow fandom's minds. Will it work out? I don't know. I would love to be able to state for sure that it's happening. What seems clear from what I've heard is that Marvel wants to be able to play with all of their characters, and if they can make that work creatively and on a corporate level, they will, and that means the world gets bigger again."

Adding fuel to the fire, BadassDigest is claiming that Sony is going even further and recasting the role for Drew Goddard's Sinister Six. That would mean Andrew Garfield would be out and that we'll see a third actor portraying Peter Parker. Also, Alex Kurtzman's Venom spin-off is apparently dead (that really came out of nowhere). Neither of these have been confirmed by Sony, but Devin has a good track record with this sort of stuff. Here's what Devin is hearing about Sony's bizarre Spider-Man plans. 

- Sony is going to soft reboot Spider-Man with The Sinister Six, having a new actor playing a Spidey who works with the villains The Dirty Dozen style to take down a larger threat. 

- Sony is going to put Spider-Man on the shelf for four or five years and see if they can develop any of the side characters into their own franchises. 

I've also heard that Venom is functionally dead again.

Don't get the impression that we'll be seeing Spidey swinging around in Age of Ultron, because it's too late in the game to add him into the main film. However, it's not out of the question to have him involved with Easter Eggs, via digital shots or props within the film. Having one of the Avengers reading The Daily Bugle might be just enough to give fans something to strive for. Button scenes are likely to leak via sites like LatinoReview, so it's doubtful they'll add him to one of those. 

This could be the shot-in-the-arm for a franchise that is quickly losing it's support from fans and audiences alike. While Amazing Spider-Man remains to be popular overseas, the returns are diminishing with each installment domestically. Not the best sign of a healthy superhero franchise. The second film failed to connect with audiences, and Sony delayed production on Amazing Spider-Man 3. Instead, they're moving forward with Sinister Six and an untitled female-led spin-off (Blackcat?). Devin states that Spider-Man (played by a new actor) will be in Sinister Six, but that might be the last we see of him for a while. As Sony might be putting an immediate holt to Amazing Spider-Man 3, for a couple of years. 

All this sounds like Sony is scrambling to figure out how to keep this franchise alive, and rushing into a third film doesn't seem to be apart of these plans. Having Spider-Man be apart of Captain America 3 (rumored to have elements of Civil War) or Avengers 3 could mend those bridges with fans. The studio doesn't seem to know what to do, but having Marvel help-out is the best case scenario. Since, it's very unlikely Sony will sell back the rights. This could end-up being more of a case of how Marvel is able to use/share characters like Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver with Fox. 

On our part, we know that Sony's relationship with Marvel is a bit less cantankerous than it is with Fox. Even though Marvel's Kevin Feige remains good friends with X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner. The studio itself seems to butt-heads with Marvel on character details. It was rumored that Marvel wasn't willing to allow the Deadpool movie to be rated-R. Considering he's one of the more popular characters and does feature in their comics, video games and cartoons. You can't blame them, but it kind of shows how much say Marvel still has with these projects. These heated studio conflicts haven't dampened Lauren and Hugh Jackman's wiliness to join the Cinematic Universe. Jackman an X-Men producer himself, has also called for Wolverine and Spidey to join the ranks. 

SOURCE: HITFIX BADASSDIGEST

Robert Downey Jr Weighs-In On BLACK WIDOW, HAWKEYE And HULK Movies

Robert Downey Jr. is in a cool position, as he's signed-on to reprise the role of Tony Stark one more time in Avengers 3. The third installment isn't due until 2018-2019. Meaning, the elder statesman of the Marvel cinematic universe isn't going anywhere for some time. Allowing him to be outspoken about Marvel chatter concerning rumors and future projects. Speaking to USAToday, Robert did just that addressing Marvel's delay in announcing a Black Widow spin-off film.

The delay has sparked a bit of criticism, not having a female superhero officially announced as part of Marvel's future releases. Even more so, in the wake of the female Spider-Man spin-off at Sony and unofficially Warner Bros. solo Wonder Woman movie. Robert simply states the obvious and rational question, "doesn't Scarlett deserve a break?"

“Look, I think that the interesting thing particularly after [Guardians of the Galaxy] with Zoe [Saldana], even from the first Iron Man where Pepper was kind of this really – to me the Iron Man franchise would never have taken off without [Gwyneth] Paltrow. There’s something about her that grounded the story. She’s not your typical lady in a superhero movie, and then by Iron Man 3 she’s swallowing serums and putting on suits and kicking [butt] and all that stuff. It would be kind of more appropriate for a character that already was like a Black Widow [to lead a movie]. It just seems like whatever Scarlett does people want to go see it.” 

He makes some valid-points. Scarlett has played Black Widow in four movies, and could be expected to be apart of future projects. We all understand the demand for her own solo adventure. But it's really up to her when she wants to go back to making films, as a new mother. I think we can all respect that, even if it might delay production on a solo outing for a couple of years.

Oddly enough, Robert continues the discussion by pondering solo movies for both Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Hulk (Mark Ruffalo). The latter we've been hearing for sometime development on a new Hulk film, going back to 2012. Indestructible Hulk and Planet Hulk story theories have been circling for a couple of years. Ruffalo and Joss Whedon teased in Avengers press tour, that two could work together on developing a new film (Whedon possibly writing the script).

“The funny thing is honestly at this point everyone deserves a franchise. I think Jeremy Renner is — when folks see the Avengers: Age of Ultron he’s just a rockstar, a badass. And Ruffalo is pumped. He does great (work). I’d like to hear them talk even more seriously about a Hulk franchise, because that’s been one of the toughest ones to get right. But I’m sure that my parent company is feeling expansive and and bold after the summer they’ve had.”

Again, we hear from RDJ how impressive Jeremy's role in Avengers: Age of Ultron will be, hyping-up the character even more. It's possible Clint Barton could have an equally strong role in Captain America 3 as well. Originally, filmmakers wanted and wrote Barton into The Winter Soldier. Renner had to decline due to other projects. I've been under the impression that Renner could lead a West Coast Avengers film. That's if Marvel indeed plans on splinting the main group into two teams. Which is already rumored for Age of Ultron, leading up to the events of Civil War. Finally, giving Hawkeye more of a main character role than previous movies.


SOURCE: USATODAY

Adrianne Palicki Cast As Mockingbird For AGENTS OF SHIELD, Will She Show-Up In The Films?

Agents of SHIELD isn't the greatest thing to come from Marvel Studios, but they are at least trying their best for it's second season. They've added an impressive new lineup of actors which include comedian Patton Oswalt, Lucy Lawless (Xena, Battlestar Galactica) and Kyle MacLachlan (Dune, Twin Peaks). Another addition has been announced via THR, and it's kinda of a big deal. As Marvel has hired actress and former Wonder Woman, Adrianne Palicki to play super-spy Bobbi Morse, better known as Marvel heroine and SHIELD agent Mockingbird.

The big deal is that Mockingbird is the sometimes partner/love-interest to Clint Barton (Hawkeye), and actually has worked alongside the Avengers as a full-fledged member. It's possible the role could be just guest starring role for the television show, to give fans a solid character from the comics. I have to assume she might show-up in future films including Captain America 3 or Avengers installments. Since Mockingbird taking a role in the third Captain America film would make things a bit more diverse.

This is an interesting turn of events, considering Palicki had been in the running for role in Guardians of The Galaxy (rumored to be Gamora).

SOURCE: THR

SPECULATION: Will The MCU Suffer At The Hands Of Thanos' Black Order And The Kree-Skrull War?

Predicting Marvel villains and direction of their future universe is nearly impossible. Kevin Feige and the folks at Marvel Studios have had a decent lock-down concerning their future plans, for the most part. While we've had both Feige and Gunn shoot-down a bunch of rumors lately, mainly talk of a Ms Marvel (even though she's expected to show-up in Age of Ultron) film and the Planet Hulk storyline being explored. I think we're all overlooking other things that could be coming out of the cosmic-side of the MCU in the near future.

James Gunn revealed to ThePlaylist that Marvel has a very limited access to villainous alien races from the comics, pointing out they don't own the Badoon. I assume Fox has those rights from their original deal for Fantastic Four/Silver Surfer. Strangely enough, we saw almost zero aliens in that original franchise. Even though Fox has access to characters like The Silver Surfer, Super-Skrull, The Badoon, Blastaar, Galactus and possibly even Kang The Conquer (someone needs to ask Feige about that one).

"The whole thing is, there's Sakaraan in the movie. And the reason there's Sakaraan in the movie is because there aren't that many alien races in the Marvel Universe, and of those prominent alien races, such as the Kree and the Skrull," Gunn added, somewhat tantalizingly, "I have some very specific ideas for where those races go."

Gunn did however mention that he and Marvel have plans for the Kree and Skrulls. The bitter alien enemies, whose war has spanned across the universe and even clashed on Earth as well. Interesting enough, Thanos has connections to both The Kree and The Skrulls, the Skrulls being one his pawns similar to the Chitauri. Yet, considering their advanced technology and shape-shifting abilities, they would make a stronger threat to the Earth (ala Secret Invasion). I could also see them become the antagonists for the Black Panther movie as well. Whedon has said as much, while opting to use the Chitauri instead of the Skrulls for Loki's army. Marvel seemingly has big plans for the two alien races. Perhaps, those plans will be revealed this weekend.

Ronan The Accuser the main baddies in Guardians is indeed a high-ranking Kree, who just happens to work for Thanos. So the Kree have already been established in the MCU, and talk of Ms Marvel could mean their involvement on Earth soon. Ronan might also have ties to another villainous group under the thumb of Thanos. Considering their connections to Thanos and doing his dirty-work, I'm assuming both Ronan and Nebula are Thanos' generals in his group The Black Order. I'm actually curious to learn why the Kree (or just Ronan) is backing-up Thanos. Perhaps, Thanos is actually in-control of the Kree Empire at the moment. It will be even more interesting to find out how The Inhumans fit-into all of this as well. Since that film has been compared to Game of Thrones in space.

I wouldn't be too shocked if we end-up seeing the rest of Black Order (Proxima Midnight, Corvus Glaive, Supergiant, Black Dwarf, Ebony Maw) in the sequel (if not in other Marvel films), searching the rest of the universe for Infinity Stones/Gems. Clashing with the Guardians and other cosmic heroes along the way, leading-up to the eventual Avengers 3 confutation. There have been teases that the Guardians could crossover into an Avengers installment, which makes sense since Thanos would be everyone's problem by that point.

We've been hearing for a while now that Thanos (played by Josh Brolin) will be the big bad of the Marvel universe for years to come. Being a kind of puppet master, pulling the strings of other powerful Marvel villains. Having his Black Order on the hunt for the infinity stones sounds about right. It's also in his wheelhouse to spark a huge conflict on Earth like either an invasion or all out war by the Kree and Skrull. Leading to all sorts of possibilities such as Secret Invasion or even Civil War.

Josh Brolin Will Voice Thanos In GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY (Possibly AGE OF ULTRON And AVENGERS 3 Too)

LatinoReview has revealed who will play our purple death-obsessed villain Thanos in Guardians of The Galaxy and Avengers 3. Veteran actor Josh Brolin has taken the role, and will voice the Mad Titan. His role of puppet-master in Guardians is expected to be a big larger, than in Avengers and will likely see him take an even bigger role in Avengers: Age of Ultron and Avengers 3. Thanos is expected to be as prolific a villain as Tom Hiddleston's Loki, if not more, as he could be the driving threat of all three Avengers films.

Brolin is an inspired choice with roles in films such as American Gangster, No Country For Old Men, True Grit, Milk and W. Playing many villains in his career, not to mention being in the mix for the new Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. His Oscar nomination for Milk is also worth noting, as Marvel is keen on actors with Academy nominations and or awards. Josh isn't opposed to taking-on genre pictures as well with projects like Planet Terror, Hallow Man, Mimic, Jonah Hex and this summer's Sin City: A Dame To Kill For.





SOURCE: LATINOREVIEW

Chris Hemsworth Confirms More Marvel Sequels, Kevin Feige Talks THOR 3, PHASE THREE, DAREDEVIL And X-MEN Crossover

AccessHollywood was able to speak with Thor: The Dark World's Chris Hemsworth. The actor confirms his contract includes returning for Thor 3 and Avengers 3. Marvel hasn't announcement plans at the moment to include a third Thor film. So, it's possible if Thor: The Dark World reaches similar numbers to Iron Man 3 (unlikely but could break $800m) the studio will likely fast track a sequel for Phase Three. We already know big numbers don't equal sequels as Iron Man 4 doesn't seem to be the aim currently. Even with Shane Black game for more installments and the last film earning $1.3 billion at the worldwide box office. However, it led to Robert Downey Jr. signing up for Avengers: Age of Ultron and a yet untitled Avengers 3.

"I’ve got three left in my contract – from here on, I have two more Avengers and one more Thor and if people wanted to see more, I’d be happy to keep going. I love these stories and I love this character. The opportunity has opened up everything for me."

We've heard Loki actor Tom Hiddleston previously mention that he'd love to see Amora The Enchantress in a future film. Along with Hemsworth warming up to the idea of casting his Snow White And The Huntsman co-star Charlize Theron in that villainous role. Besides chatter from the actors nothing is officially slated for release. However, Kevin Feige briefly spoke to SlashFilm about the chances of seeing Loki before Thor 3, giving the impression they have at least an idea of what Thor 3 might look like. Also, stating we could be seeing two films in the Phase Two lineup focusing on existing MCU characters. A model which is seeming being put into practice starting in April 2014 with the Captain America sequel and leading to August's release of new franchise Guardians of The Galaxy.

"Yeah, I don’t think it would be before Thor 3 if there is a Thor 3 and while we certainly have ideas of where we would like that to go, there are no specifics. We have to see how this one does and then go from there."

"I think it’s important, in an ideal world, that we have an additional story on a pre-existing character and then introduce a new character. So next year is The Winter Solider, Guardians…Year after that, Age of Ultron, Ant-Man. That’s a nice rhythm. It might not always be like that. I mean [this year was] Iron Man 3 and The Dark World, so it won’t always be like that necessarily, but that’s certainly something to aim for. So we have additional stories of the existing characters in development and the new ones, all of which you’ve heard before."

While speaking on an Empire video chat (via CBM), Kevin Feige also dished on development plans for Daredevil and commented on an X-Men crossover. After previously talking about working X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner and getting his Marvel feet wet with the original X-Men film.

"Daredevil is back at Marvel, and there are lots of talented people figuring out what to do with him next. We love Daredevil, there are amazing stories -- the Bendis run over 5 or 6 years, running into a Brubaker run was amazing. All sorts of things before that era we could use -- so I think you can bet on seeing SOMETHING from Daredevil in the not to distant future." 

"In terms of an X-Men crossover, there are certainly no plans now -- I never say never to things like that, but I don't think it'll be anytime soon", Feige says, before joking that it'll be "Phase 27" before we see that happen."

Vin Diesel Hinting He Could Be Playing Either Thanos Or Vision In The MCU?

While Kevin Feige was downplaying Marvel's meeting with actor Vin Diesel at Comic-Con. The actor was still giving tidbits of information to EW, who he might be looking to play in the MCU. People having been under the impression that Guardians members Groot and Rocket Raccoon are solid candidates. However, a new statement from Vin seemingly puts him in a more villainous direction. As he mentions a "love story" similar to the one in the original Fast And Furious film. This gives us the more fuel that Vin might actually be in the running for the Mad Titan Thanos or Ultron's android creation Vision.

“Marvel was excited about bring a different kind of relationship, a different kind of love story, I guess kind of inspired from the Dom-Letty relationship, into the Marvel universe.”

The android villain turned Avenger member Vision has a well known love story within the comics. Which sees him and Scarlet Witch (confirmed as a villain in Avengers: Age of Ultron) fall in love. Diesel has been campaigning for ages to play Vision and there was quite a large fan outcry to have Agent Coulson play him. Marvel knows that the fans want him involved in one way or another. Ultron (the baddie of Avengers 2) builds Vision to defeat the Avengers but ultimately rejects Ultron to join the heroes instead.

 Thanos is expected to be the villain behind the scenes of Guardians of The Galaxy leading to a big brawl Avengers 3. The Titan's obsession and passion for his love Death (an actual flesh and blood character in the form of a female human). His love for Death compels him take the lives of half the universe as an offering to her. Whedon actually spoke to the Thanos/Death relationship a while back which would mean that would be guiding factor to him getting his hands on the infinity gauntlet.

RUMOR: Next HULK Film Taking Cues From INDESTRUCTIBLE HULK And Coming 2016-2017?

While rumblings of a new Hulk film have been going on since Mark Ruffalo's breakout performance in Avengers. Joss Whedon and Mark talked about collaborating on it's script a while back. Talk of it's direction is seemingly going in a different direction than previously reported. Apparently, CBM is hearing from Marvel sources that Planet Hulk/World War Hulk isn't Marvel's current plan for the big green guy. Instead they might be looking at Marvel Now's run of Indestructible Hulk where Bruce Banner joins S.H.I.E.L.D. in exchange to help fund worthwhile science projects that will benefit society making up for his destructive ways. Having Banner/Hulk as the hero rather than the man on the run seems unique enough that the studio could really make a unique installment.

This may be the reason Banner shows up in the end credits scene in Iron Man 3. Since Marvel's button scenes tend to lead into the next big thing ala Fury-Avengers/Thanos-Guardians. While Doctor Strange is on the horizon for Phase Three an official release date hasn't been given. Along with the fact the studio has slotted two unnamed films for 2016 and one unknown for 2017. It's expected that Avengers 3 won't be happening until 2018. It's possible Marvel will announce three-four films that could be released between Ant-Man and Avengers 3. The fate of Strange, Black Panther and Inhumans hasn't been made public by the studio just yet. A new Hulk film taking over slot that would have been for Iron Man 4 makes some sense as well.

RUMOR: Does Marvel Want Joseph Gordon-Levitt To Play DOCTOR STRANGE?

While Comic-Con is about to begin in San Diego, LatinoReview drops a big news item to kick the week off. They say that Marvel Studios is talking about getting Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Inception, 500 Days of Summer, 50/50, Don Jon, Looper) for the lead in their Doctor Strange film. It might seem odd that they'd try to get a supporting actor from The Dark Knight Rises who might end up taking over Batman's mantle in future films. However, JGL was in the mix for Starlord in Guardians of The Galaxy before Chris Pratt ultimately got the role. So Marvel has the young actor on their radar and could want him for a bigger role.

The versatile actor has proven he's able to handle dramatic, romantic, action and comedic roles a perfect melding for a new Marvel property like Strange. LR does state it's a rumor at this point but considering WB might be looking for new Bruce Wayne instead. That could lead Joe to look elsewhere for a franchise project. He's already got a directing credit under his belt alongside Avengers and Captain America: The Winter Soldier actress Scarlett Johansson. Perhaps, Marvel might even consider him to direct as well. Since his film Don Jon is gathering independent critical praise which the studio does fawn over.

Hugh Jackman Wants Marvel/Fox/Sony To Workout A Deal For Wolverine And Spider-Man To Join THE AVENGERS

If Robert Downey Jr is the face of MCU, then Hugh Jackman is the poster-boy of Fox's X-Men franchise. The actor and producer was recently asked by Collider if he'd like to join The Avengers. We've previously heard promising talk from X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner that she'd love to see X-Men characters involved in sequels (with Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver already set for the second installment). Jackman goes further and says he's talked to the Marvel liaison to the studios about putting it together with Fox and even mentions Spidey (calling out Sony?) needing to be involved. A lot of profit sharing deals and extended contracts would have to be signed for this to even be considered. Studios aren't keen on sharing their superheroes and Marvel/Disney might not be willing to share profits with multiple studios. The film logo for Oscorp (from Amazing Spider-Man) showed up in a video game promoting Iron Man 3, which looked like the first step in bridging the multi-studio franchises into one single cohesive Marvel film universe.

"I literally asked the same question the other day to Tom from Marvel who works with all the other studios, he works with Sony and Fox, that’s his job to liaise. I said, ‘Man, can this happen?’ and he goes ‘Look, it’s not gonna be easy because you’re working with different studios and they’re their properties.’ But I believe—maybe I’m optimistic, I understand at Marvel they’ve got The Avengers, they’ve got a lot of big things going on, but at some point I just find it almost impossible that there’s not a way to bring Iron Man, all the Avengers characters, Wolverine, the X-Men characters, Spider-Man, and somehow get them in together." 

"I don’t see the impediment! I’m like, okay you’ve got three studios, just split it three ways in terms of the cost, and happy days it’s all coming together! I would love to… I’m in for it, I’m totally up for it because I think that would be really exciting for fans across the board." 

However, it would make sense to have other characters inhabit the same cinematic world and could be a giant way to promote other characters. Neither the X-Men films or Spider-Man films have reached a billion like Iron Man 3. The only thing is that Joss Whedon and Kevin Feige have seemed hesitant about the idea, since they could develop new characters and franchises within the MCU instead. Sharing that much screentime with outside Marvel characters might take away from others. Then again, Feige has brought up the idea of Civil War (for the third installment) which would make an excellent excuse to bring in Spidey and Wolverine. There had also been rumblings that Sony might have to sell off characters like Spider-Man and Marvel/Disney would be expected to pay top dollar to get the rights back. Fox on the other hand are about to announce an X-Force film and will likely finally greenlight Deadpool at Comic-Con.

SPECULATION: Does Marvel Want Vin Diesel To Play A Villainous Namor The Sub-Mariner, Making Way For PLANET HULK And THE DEFENDERS?

It was revealed that Vin Diesel could meet with Marvel about a possible role. At that point yesterday there wasn't much to go on besides an old posting of a picture of Vision. A few years back Vin Diesel told MTV his dream Marvel roles would include a villain naming Dr. Doom or Namor The Sub-Mariner. Namor is considered the first mutant but is exempt from Fox's X-Men deal and his film rights are with Marvel. While Doom is securely still with Fox for their Fantastic Four reboot which is about to start production. So it sounds like Marvel might be looking to cast him as Namor McKenzie better known as The Sub-Mariner. He also posted this image as well.

“I would be [more] apt to play a villain,” Diesel revealed to MTV News. “[I'd like to play] the protagonist of a story that is also like a Marvel villain – like Doctor Doom or something.”

“I have some superhero favorites,” Diesel admitted. “I talked to ['The Surrogates' director] Jonathan Mostow about ‘Sub-Mariner,’ which could be interesting because of its World War II-New York connection.”

The sometimes villain and hero has been hinted to in Iron Man 2 with the Meta Human map at a possible location for Namor's kingdom Atlantis along with Black Panther's country Wakanda. Another possible hint to Namor includes his company Oracle with the sprinkling of ads for Sun Oracle Systems in Avengers and Iron Man 3. At one point there were rumblings that both Captain America: The First Avenger and Iron Man 3 would feature him.

Namor could make excellent villain or hero for Avengers 2 or beyond, depending on the plans of Phase Two and Phase Three. Since it's very possible the new threat on Earth could come from the Atlantis. Since Namor did team-up with the Hulk to take on the Avengers in issue three. It's possible that Marvel might be trying to put together a Defenders lineup for the MCU which included Hulk, Doctor Strange Namor and Asgardian heroine Brunhilde The Valkyrie which might setup Civil War for Avengers 3. If Strange is going to be the new Iron Man for Phase Three then he's going to need to lead his own team of superheroes. The Defenders could end up a solid successor to The Avengers if handled properly by the studio. LatinoReview has mentioned The Illuminati being involved with an Avengers sequel leading to a Planet Hulk film which could all fit together nicely if Namor is introduced into the MCU.

Robert Downey Jr. Officially Signs Deal To Appear In AVENGERS 2 And AVENGERS 3

Marvel confirms that Robert Downey Jr. will indeed play Tony Stark/Iron Man for two more films. As Robert has officially signed a two-picture deal to play Stark in both Avengers 2 and Avengers 3. This deal doesn't include any future Iron Man films. It's possible a bigger deal might need to be made for him to sign an Iron Man 4 contract or Marvel could give the franchise some time to breathe. Instead of rushing into a new trilogy giving the massive backlog of new characters (Black Panther, Iron Fist, Ms Marvel) a chance to get their films released. The Avengers and Iron Man 3 have collectively earned Marvel $2.7 billion, so it's an investment they had to make. Robert Downey Jr. and his take on Tony Stark is currently the glue of the MCU which will see him sticking around till the end of Phase Three. Details of the deal aren't being mentioned but it's possible that sort of information will be leaked eventually.

Marvel Has Scripts For MS MARVEL And BLADE Reboot?

THR recently broke news concerning Marvel's plans for Avengers 3. They also broke the first real confirmation that Marvel is actually pursuing a Ms Marvel (Captain Marvel) film with a script already developed. A new Blade script is mentioned as well. It's a bit of a surprise since the character is best known for being an R-rated genre based franchise. While Thor's Idris Elba (Pacific Rim) has voiced his interest in playing the daywalker in future films. Strange, Black Panther and Iron Fist are still also in development. The former confirmed as a contender for Phase Three alongside Ant-Man and Avengers 3. It's unknown at this point if Panther, Ms Marvel or Iron Fist will end up making the cut, allowing for more sequels. A Guardians sequel and new Hulk film are strong possible candidates for Phase Three as well.

There had been previous talk of the role being linked to Emily Blunt and Ruth Wilson (Lone Ranger, Luther). Along with old rumblings that Alice Eve (Star Trek Into Darkness) might also be in the running.

AVENGERS 2 Contract Issues Leading Marvel To Replace Actors?

While Marvel is looking to wrangle Robert Downey Jr. into a new contract. The same can't be said about the other actors. New behind the scenes information via Deadline gives the impression that both Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth were almost replaced before their respective sequels went into production. Not to mention the studio has threatened to replace actors. Scarlett Johansson is also sounding off stating she's not willing to take a pay cut either. This isn't a hard request to fill since the last film soared to make $1.5 billion in box office. I wouldn't be shocked if post-Avengers 2 we end up seeing new actors playing Thor, Cap and Widow or even before then.

RDJ is the iconic leader of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and it's possible he could be trying to help his fellow cast members get more money or at least fair compensation. I don't see Marvel getting new actors unless they have to but I get the impression that Evans and Hemsworth might end up walking if they can't win them back with their demand rising along with their quotes. It's a sad story since Marvel has been trying develop their own stars but when they find success elsewhere and can't pay them their worth they will loose them.

No word if Jeremy Renner will be back since his name hasn't been mentioned. However, with Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver being linked for the sequel it's possible Widow and Hawkeye might be edged out of the sequel. Giving the two S.H.I.E.L.D. agents the bench for superpowered heroes to join the ranks.

Marvel Looking To Nab Robert Downey Jr. For AVENGERS 2 And AVENGERS 3, His Involvement In IRON MAN 4 Uncertain

THR reports that Disney/Marvel and Robert Downey Jr. met on Monday to start talks for Robert to sign-on for Avengers 2 and Avengers 3. The former expected to begin production early next year with a May 2015 release. Avengers 3 doesn't have a release date but could be coming in 2017. No word if these talks will end up including Iron Man 4 or Iron Man 5, which director Shane Black has teased. Considering that Iron Man 3 has already reached $700 million worldwide and Avengers hit $1.5 billion last year it's safe to say that Robert will keep audiences coming back for more.

SPOILERS: Marvel Plans To Use HULK In Phase Three Films, Including A New Solo Film

LatinoReview has finally dropped their big Marvel scoop and it's a big spoiler. Marvel is moving forward with plans for the Hulk to play a giant role in Phase Three. We've assumed this previously as Marvel has teased Hulk being a bigger piece of their future plans. After stealing a majority of the scenes in Avengers. Talk had already begun about a new Hulk movie during the promotion of The Avengers last Summer.



The big reveal/spoiler is that at the end of Avengers 2 Hulk will be deemed too dangerous for Earth and will be cast into space. This will lead to a new solo adventure based on the Planet Hulk saga. Banner is placed on a space shuttle to be marooned on a peaceful planet were he and others can be safe. Only one problem, his ship crashes onto a violent alien planet where he is turned into gladiator. Fighting alien creatures to the death for the amusement of spectators he ends breaking loose and leads a rebellion against an oppressive leadership. Which ends up with Hulk becoming the new ruler of the planet, Spartacus/Gladiator anyone? While Avengers 2 leading into Planet Hulk rumor has been around for a while it's the first time an outlet has spent this much effort to confirm it. It should be noted they would be treading familiar ground as they released an animated movie focusing on The Planet Hulk comic.

The biggest addition is that he'll end up becoming the villain of Avengers 3, taking cues from World War Hulk. Hulk feeling betrayed by Earth decides on conquering it with his new loyal alien followers and army. An invasion that could only be stopped with the help of the Guardians of The Galaxy and maybe even the Inhumans (sounds plausible with a film in development). Gamora and Drax being able go toe-to-toe with Hulk without being smashed into pieces. This plot point would overshadows talk of Civil War or even the Skrulls being the main storyline for a third installment.

Like I said before this isn't Earth shattering news because Marvel has been tip-toeing over a new Hulk movie for a couple of months now. A while back someone from Marvel accidentally let slip they had plans for a movie along with the television series they developing for ABC. Marvel's Kevin Feige went one step forward by actually naming Planet Hulk and World War Hulk as possible avenues for the Hulk post-Avengers 2 while speaking with MTV.

I don’t think there’s a lot that we couldn’t do someday, as the cinematic universe continues to grow and expand and get as big as the comic book universe. ”Planet Hulk’ is a cool story, ‘World War Hulk’ is a cool story. I think there’s pitfalls of continuity-overload, and mythology getting so dense that it almost collapses in on itself [with those cosmic projects]. It happens every few decades or so in the comics. Apart from that, I’d say everything is on the table.


The Hulk show has suddenly gone into limbo since Whedon has jumped the line taking his S.H.I.E.L.D. series to pilot. Guillermo del Toro had been producing the project and was going to direct the Hulk pilot episode. It's possible it could still happen but with Hulk getting his own franchise it's doubtful they would rehash old material with a TV series. When this is officially announced by Marvel I expect that plans for the series will be canceled. Whedon has already mentioned a desire to write a new Hulk film and this seems right up is alley.

 I wouldn't count out del Toro also being asked to direct the feature. He's already interested in the character committing to the TV series, already making a successful film starring a Marvel character with Blade 2 along with being attached to direct Dr. Strange years ago. While he turned down Star Wars (also a Disney production), a Planet Hulk film could be a way for Guillermo to make his own type of Star Wars film within the cosmic-side of the MCU. The idea of del Toro directing a Joss Whedon scripted cosmic Hulk film is too amazing not to consider. Del Toro is about to release Pacific Rim this summer and will begin production on Crimson Peak next Winter.  He wouldn't need to release Planet Hulk until at least 2016 giving him tons of time to work with Whedon and production designers.

This is speculation on my part but I had mentioned Alison Brie should be cast as the new Betty Ross when the first talk of a new Hulk film was being rumored. This was months before her linked involvement with Marvel for Captain America 2. A majority of the lovely ladies linked for the lead in Cap sequel were brunettes and if Sharon was really the lead character, why look at so many non-blonds?

It's possible that she and other actresses were being looked at for a different female role other than Sharon Carter. Betty Ross could be this other part (or Jennifer Walters) in Winter Soldier as she did work for S.H.I.E.L.D. in the Ultimates. It could also see her transformed into the Red She Hulk (or She Hulk) while trying to find a cure for Banner maybe in Avengers 2. Making her a more viable candidate to join the Avengers roster than say Ms. Marvel (Carol Danvers) as she has already been introduced in the MCU via The Incredible Hulk. It would be simpler to include a female heroine like She Hulk or Red She Hulk because they wouldn't need to include Skrulls or Kree like with Danvers.

I wouldn't be shocked if a sub-plot of Banner's DNA becoming a viable piece of weapons technology could be introduced in Captain America: The Winter Soldier then played out in Avengers 2. Perhaps with a little help from The Leader (introduced in Incredible Hulk) the Masters of Evil/Hydra could amass their own group of power super-hulks with a sample of Banner's blood. You might remember that Banner wanted all his blood samples destroyed because he feared it would become a weapon "they couldn't get back". This could be played out within Phase Two, as in Avengers that phrase was attributed to the next evolution of weapons. Incredible Hulk is canon as Marvel has said it's indeed apart of the MCU along with using clips from it during Iron Man 2 and Avengers.