Marvel Confirms Andy Serkis Is Playing KLAW In 'AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON'

Disney blog Stitch Kingdom has got ahold of a batch of high resolution images from Marvel's Avengers: Age of Ultron. The images include a still of Andy Serkis and reveals his character to indeed be Ulysses Klaw as listed by Marvel.

We had our senses that Serkis was playing Klaw just by his facial hair alone. Not to mention his necklace that included an animal claw, very subtle Marvel.

This character confirmation of sorts seemingly also gives the impression that Wakanda's presence will be bigger than previously expected. Something that might have been hinted to in the second trailer.

Klaw is primarily known as the most well-known of Black Panther rogues.

There hasn't been word if we'll see Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa in the film but there have been hints he could show-up at the very end with a cameo but that remains to be seen.

It's expected some of T'Challa's story will be told in Captain America: Civil War, we shouldn't be shocked to see Serkis' Klaw involved in that film as well since the role is expected to crossover a couple of films.

SOURCE: STITCH KINGDOM

Joss Whedon Responds To Directing CAPTAIN MARVEL; Reveals Female BATMAN Movie Idea

BuzzFeed was able to get writer-director Joss Whedon to sort of expand on his comments from his interview with Digital Spy, where he voiced distain for Hollywood's handling of the female superhero genre. Mainly, about Marvel Studios moving forward with Captain Marvel.


Yes, and not expecting it to get any traction, honestly. That’s something that [Marvel Studios chief] Kevin [Feige] has been working on for a while. And I obviously was a cheerleader, but he had to get all the ducks in a row and get all the minds in agreement. I think being a part of Disney maybe makes it easier, because they’re open to it. And Marvel now is in a position to shake up its own paradigm, because it’s got such a success record. 

Honestly, you know, Guardians [of the Galaxy] might have helped it, just because that was outside what was considered to be their box and did so well that— Well, let’s put it this way: If a raccoon can carry a movie, then they believe maybe even a woman can.

They then directly ask him if he'd be willing to make Captain Marvel.

Um, I would never rule anything out, because I like working here. By the same token, the biggest thing for me is that I need to do something that I create myself. It’s been way too long since I created a universe. The last thing I did before The Avengers was [directing an episode of] Glee, and in between I did Much Ado About Nothing. So I haven’t created my own universe for over five years. That feels wrong. You know, my own universe might be a book of haiku. I’m not necessarily saying I’ve got a grand scheme. 

I will say that when I was thinking about, Well, if I wasn’t going to do Avengers 2, what would I want to do? — of course the first thing I thought of was “turn-of-the-century female Batman.” Not Batman actually. But, you know, something cool. One person. Can’t stress that enough. Movie about one person — not a team, not 10, just one. But [I would] do a nice sort of hard action movie that combined all my favorite things. Something that would be the love child of Sam Fuller and Edward Gorey. You know, I’ve had many thoughts since then. Oh, I could do this! Oh, I could do that! But it is my instinct to want to tell those stories. 

Captain Marvel I don’t know as well. There have been a few [versions] of her. I have the first issue of Ms. Marvel, back when she was that, and had the Farrah hair. My only issue with her is that she always felt sort of on top. She was very driven. A winner. I always like to dig into the soil of things to find my heroes, if I can.

This is actually the first time we've heard Joss talk about making a turn-of-the-century female Batman film. We know he tried to get Warner Bros. to make his Wonder Woman adaptation, maybe they'll warm-up to this idea now that they know he's open to developing new superhero projects.

I mean, what studio in their right mind would reject a superhero film project from Joss after The Avengers? Plus, this isn't the first time DC Comics has played with timelines with their heroes.

Imagine Whedon making a steampunk Justice League movie.

SOURCE: BUZZFEED 

Joss Whedon Criticizes Lack Of Female Superhero Films; Could He Make CAPTAIN MARVEL?

Feminist filmmaker Joss Whedon has been a pioneer for female genre material ever since creating the breakout character Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Spending most of his career opening doors for actresses/female characters to be taken serious as leads of genre television series and feature films.

Even playing in the sandbox of my female-led franchise with his script for Alien Resurrection writing for the iconic genre character Ellen Ripley.

In an interview with Digital Spy he calls out Hollywood's "stupid people" blocking female-led comic book films. Also, pointing to fact Fox has access to the best female Marvel characters which isn't leaving Marvel Studios with much to work with. He would know since he wrote for the X-Men comics.

"It's a phenomenon in the industry that we call 'stupid people'," Whedon said. "There is genuine, recalcitrant, intractable sexism, and old-fashioned quiet misogyny that goes on. 

"You hear 'Oh, [female superheroes] don't work because of these two bad ones that were made eight years ago', there's always an excuse." 

"Hunger Games is a different structure and aesthetic to a certain extent, but these narratives where people are bigger than life and they're in these terrible, heightened circumstances, it's all part of the same genre," he said. 

"Marvel is in a position of making a statement simply by making [a female-led] movie, which I think would be a good thing to do. "But it has to be a good movie, it has to be a good character, and most of the best characters in Marvel are owned by Fox, let's face it!" 

Fox has yet to announce development a female driven superhero film since Elektra bombed.

Although, there has been talk from X-Men producers Lauren Shuler Donner and Simon Kinberg being interested in making Kitty Pryde and Mystique films but it's all been talk so far.

Whedon knows only too well what studio suits think of female superhero projects, Warner Bros. took an axe to his Wonder Woman film which had Cobie Smulders attached to star.

The studio is finally moving forward with a new adaptation with Breaking Bad's Michelle MacLaren and Gal Gadot in the titular role.

Joss would later gravitate towards Marvel and give us The Avengers, the big daddy of the comic book film genre.

Developing Scarlett Johansson's Black Widow into a total badass which was expanded upon in Captain America: Civil War. Not to mention giving Cobie a second-shot at the genre playing S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Maria Hill which has led to both becoming big supporting players in the cinematic universe.

When he was set on making it's sequel Age of Ultron he did all he could to add more female characters into the already cast heavy film. Giving us Godzilla's Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlett Witch and Marco Polo's Claudia Kim as a scientist friend of Tony Stark.

He's all about talking about Hollywood making these female comic book films but will he end-up making one of his own?

These new statements sound like there is a bit of a fire in Whedon to possibly tackle the genre, we'd all love to see him prove his point.

Joss was in attendance at the big Marvel event in October which he seemed really only there to help support Ultron. However, since he's already talking about leaving the Avengers franchise he could have been there for other motives.

This was the first official reveal that Marvel was making Captain Marvel and even was bold enough to set the release date for July 2017. If you've seen footage from the event people went apeshit when the film's title card was revealed.

Kevin Feige would go on stating the film had been in-development almost as long as Guardians and Doctor Strange, adding that news of a writer and director was coming soon.

Some speculate we'll hear the announcement around the time of the release of Age of Ultron, as production would likely have to begin sometime in 2016.

The Whedon link to Carol Danvers goes back a while when he first stated he hated the character, and then in an interview with HeyUGuys over the summer did a 180 on that previous statement.

Rumors of Danvers casting started back in 2012 around the time Whedon was developing the untitled sequel's early outline. The talk at the time was that the role would appear in the second film.

Since then we've been hearing that she might be in the film after all with a possible cameo at the end of the film, we'll know for sure if Carol is in the film come May.

Talk of the development on the solo film hit the trades about a year ago it was suggested the script was being written in-house at Marvel Studios.

Meaning that an outsider hadn't been hired to write it, giving us the impression it was either someone like Guardian's Nicole Perlman (who was apart of their screenwriting program) or an existing writer at the studio, which points towards a female centric writer like Joss Whedon.

Whedon is more than capable to handle this kind of material and it would allow him to move into a different aspect of the Marvel universe as Kevin has stated her adventures are indeed set in the comic universe.

I'm sure the big question during Age of Ultron's press tour will be, is Joss Whedon going to write or direct Captain Marvel?




SOURCE: DIGITAL SPY

Does Marvel Studios Have Big Plans For Paul Bettany's VISION?

We haven't see Paul Bettany's Vision show-up in recent Avengers: Age of Ultron trailers but the actor seemingly already has an idea when we'll be seeing his character next.

Paul Bettany spoke to an Australian news outlet (via ComicBookMovie) giving the impression the studio has given him a better idea of what his future projects could be.

“That’s the really great thing about the Marvel gig for me. I have never known if I have had a job six months out ever in my life. And now I know that they have plans and I can be even more judicious about the stuff that I do outside of that work. I can wait for the right thing and feel really attached to it.”

There is a bit of chatter of where The Vision could be seen next, mainly he could be appearing in both Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. It hasn't been confirmed but sources are clearly hearing that Marvel wants more of the character.

During the early days of Marvel Studios they did commission a Vision feature film script when they first put together the Marvel screenwriters program, that program also gave Marvel drafts for Guardians of The Galaxy, Black Widow, Inhumans and possibly Captain Marvel.

Back in 2009, Variety reported on Marvel hiring a group of writers to develop film scripts for characters such as Nighthawk, Iron Fist, Doctor Strange, Black Panther and of course Vision. It's possible since Vision is getting an introduction in Age of Ultron that he could be a viable candidate for a spin-off.

In the future we could see Vision getting his own film or at the very least branching-out towards a bigger role which the latter is already expected via rumors. We really don't have a clue what Marvel wants to do in Phase Four, a lot of things could happen.

I'm sure Marvel wants to test the waters with how audiences react to him in Age of Ultron before moving forward with bigger plans.


SOURCE: CBM

Joss Whedon Fuelling Talk Russo Bros. Will Direct 'AVENGERS INFINITY WAR'

We've been hearing for months that The Russo Brothers will be taking huge steps to be the masterminds behind Phase Three movies starting with Captain America: Civil War. There's been chatter that they'll even be taking over directing duties on the Avengers franchise from Joss Whedon on Avengers Infinity War.

In a new interview with Empire Magazine (via Comic Book Movie), Joss Whedon is seemingly hinting to his exit of the Avengers franchise. Leading us to assume that the Russos will indeed be replacing him. Here's what Joss had to say when asked if he'd be returning to make more films.

"I couldn't imagine doing this again," he reveals, referring to the time and effort which has gone into the sequel. "It's enormously hard, and it be, by then, a good five years since I created anything that was completely my own. So it's very doubtful that I would take on the two-part Infinity War movie that would eat up the next four years of my life. I obviously still want to be a part of the Marvel Universe - I love these guys - but it ain't easy. This year has been more like running three shows than any year of my life. It is bonkers."

We haven't seen Marvel allow a director to make more then two installments within these franchises and it's looking like they won't be making the exception for Whedon.

This doesn't mean he's completely done with the Marvel universe, we know he's been trying to develop a new Hulk film and he could even be involved with Captain Marvel.

It should also be noted that there is a lot of material in Age of Ultron which is setting-up Black Panther, so that's a third project he could end-up working on.

Also, check out the first non-cartoon group photo of the Avengers on the cover of Empire.

SOURCE: EMPIRE 

New AVENGERS AGE OF ULTRON Trailer Hinting To BLACK PANTHER Big Time?

Marvel Studios has posted a second teaser trailer for Avengers Age of Ultron and it's looking like it's already attempting to setup Phase Three films. There are at least two possible scenes in the trailer that hinting to two characters that could have links to both upcoming film Captain America: Civil War and Black Panther. We had confirmation a while back that Wakanda would make an appearance in the film.

Check out the impressive but short new teaser trailer below.

Is Andy Serkis playing iconic Black Panther villain Ulysses Klaw?

Here we have a better look at the character Andy Serkis is playing in the film. The assumption is that he is indeed playing Uyselly Klaw, the main antagonist to T'Challa aka The Black Panther played by Chadwick Boseman who will be first seen in costume in Captain America: Civil War.

It's expected that Civil War could explore T'Challa's rise from prince to becoming the new Black Panther and ruler of Wakanda.

He seemingly has tattoos all over his neck/throat, and is sporting a diamond earring. I could see this version of Klaw for the films could be more of a mercenary or assassin, possibly hired by someone to kill or kidnap a members of the royal family of Wakanda.

Klaw could end-up similar to Bane, but without the nuclear weapon. When he was busy running around starting military coups and securing mineral rights by force for large amounts of cash. I wouldn't be shocked if Hydra or A.I.M. are Klaw's employers.

The royal family have spent ages holding-back trade and relations with other countries, an aspect that will be explored in Civil War.

T'Challa's family double as monarchy and protectors, one who is worthy enough taking the mantle of the Black Panther and ruler.

Setting up both Wakanda and Klaw seems like a good move on the part of Marvel. Considering there might be a point in the film when Ultron heads to Wakanda to outfit his robot body with a layer of the rare mineral vibraninu, only found there.

Who the hell could this be?

Another possible shout-out to Black Panther is this quick shot of a mystery person disrobing in a cave. Looking at this person's frame I would have to assume it's an extremely fit lady.

I originally though this could be a Kree or Nebula but after resizing the image, you can clearly see that blue tint was coming from the background. This person could definitely be from Wakanda.

The possibility of a female Black Panther sign me up!

Some are claiming this could be T'Challa's sister Shuri, who also becomes a Black Panther at a point in the comics. She would eventually have her own run of comics as the titular hero. Establishing Wakanda's royal family would make a lot of sense but doesn't mean we'll see T'Challa before Civil War.

The Doja Milaje are ready to kick some ass.

Another more interesting suggestion comes from Comic Book stating that this could be member of the elite warriors of Wakanda known as The Dora Milaje.

The Dora Milaje are the personal bodyguards of the Black Panther. They are extensively trained and highly skilled martial artists and with various weapons. They are some of the fiercest warriors in the Marvel Universe.

We've been dying for more badass ladies in the Marvel cinematic universe and more importantly women of color. The Dora Milaje would be an excellent addition to the Marvel universe and could help beef-up the Black Panther movie.

SOURCE: MARVEL

Emily Blunt Finally Talks About CAPTAIN MARVEL And How Likely Is Joss Whedon Directing?

While promoting her new Disney musical Into The Woods, Emily Blunt spoke to ScreenCrush who brought-up the Captain Marvel role. Seemingly unfamiliar with both the character and her fan-favorite status. This isn't a new phenomena, actors such as Paul Rudd and Benedict Cumberbatch have played dumb in-front of reporters. When questioned about the possibility of playing Marvel heroes. This is the first time Emily has ever been asked about the character directly, so she can very easily pretend to have no knowledge of her.

It might be a bit harder to come-off ignorant of the character the next time she is asked about her. I'm sure it'll end up start becoming "it's all, rumor man". That said, she could be generally unaware of the character. Yet, that feels off to me since her husband tested for Captain America and she was cast as Black Widow. You'd think she would have more of an awareness to what the studio is up to, even more so since the Phase Three news was in every trade and news outlet.




This is the entire interview with ScreenCrush, enjoy!

Are you aware of the Internet buzz surrounding you playing Captain Marvel?

Somebody told me about it this morning! I knew because my brother told me.

People want you to play Captain Marvel.

Which is kind of amazing.

You were in ‘Looper’ and ‘Edge of Tomorrow,’ you have that cred now.

I know. What’s she like, though? I don’t know anything about her. What’s it like, this character?

She’s great.

Cool. Is she fun? Or is she just like, straight…

No, she’s witty and strong. That’s why people keep bringing your name up. They don’t want a boring actor. A lot of personality.

Oh, cool.

I think people really liked what they saw in ‘Edge of Tomorrow.’

But it’s not the same type of character?

No. It’s weird I’m explaining this to you...

I know. Someone told me this morning, my brother, actually. They call it fan casting?

Yes.

Which is lovely. It’s my favorite kind of casting! I wish it was always like that.

Sometimes fan casting works.

Which would be cool.

Maybe they can make ‘Captain Marvel’ a musical now that you’ve done ‘Into the Woods.’

[Laughs] ‘Captain Musical Marvel.’ Let’s just call Marvel about that right now. We’ll call Kevin Feige about that. “Kevin Feige, we have one hell of an idea.” Yeah.

“Only if it’s a musical will you get your dream casting.”

Exactly.

But in seriousness, it does appeal to you?

I think, it’s always for me, it’s always about—and now, more so—what am I putting out there? What would be interesting for me and what would be interesting for people to see. So, if it’s an awesome part, it doesn’t matter if it’s a Marvel movie or a tiny movie, I’d be up for it.

You’d be a hero for every 10-year-old girl out there right now.

Really? Then that’s huge.

There’s no Marvel female superhero who has her own movie yet.

That’s huge. How awesome. I love this. No one has actually called me about it, so, we’ll hold our breath. [Laughs] I don’t know if I’ll get the call ever if I pitch it should be a musical.

Blunt talked to New York Magazine in March 2012 and her reluctancy to be involved with supporting Marvel roles like Peggy Carter. Sort of echoing what Jessica Chastain has said about passing on Iron Man 3. Perhaps, giving the impression what kind of comic book role she would be interested in playing.

"Usually the female parts in a superhero film feel thankless: She's the pill girlfriend while the guys are whizzing around saving the world," offered Blunt. "I didn't do the other ones because the part wasn't very good or the timing wasn't right, but I'm open to any kind of genre if the part is great and fun and different and a challenge in some way." 

"I would love to do a comic-book movie or a science-fiction film that would scare the bejesus out of me," she continued. "Maybe I need to be James Bond! I just did 'Looper,' because it's so original and breathtakingly cool. The time-travel aspect is just a backdrop to visit this heightened world, where you're atoning for something and attempting to be more than you've been."

Here's my case that Marvel wants Blunt for the role of Danvers.

We've been hearing Emily Blunt's name rumored for Carol Danvers since TheDailyMail (known for breaking Bond news) first linked her and actress Ruth Wilson for the role in Avengers 2. That happened to be back in October 2012, around the same time the studio was putting together ideas for the sequel. Before it's ultimate announcement next July at SDCC13 as Avengers: Age of Ultron. This is also around the same time that talk of a Black Widow spin-off slowly winded-down.

Funny, since we've been hearing from trusted sites and sources that there was a Ms Marvel cameo in the final Age of Ultron script. Which could still play-out at the end of Age of Ultron, unless Marvel axes the nod completely, seemingly the practice when these things leak. Basically, it was predicted back in 2012 that Danvers could be showing-up in Avengers 2, and it might actually happen. Shocking!

To those naysayers, this might be the reason why we never heard other names in the mix since that original rumor. It's extremely possible that Marvel took in consideration that Blunt was forced out of the Black Widow role by 20th Century Fox. Emily also tested for the role of Peggy Carter but passed on the character. We assume because the role wasn't meaty enough for her at the time, and it's quite possible in late 2012 Marvel put her on a candidate list for Carol Danvers. The studio is known to put actors on wish-lists without their knowledge.

A trade report in 2013 confirmed that a draft for Captain Marvel existed. It's possible that Marvel's screenwriting program developed an outline in-house and it's perhaps how they've been able to keep the development hush-hush. Kevin Feige stated that a Captain Marvel film had been in development at the studio almost as long as Doctor Strange, which could be true. Since the in-house script program wouldn't have revealed writers and what scripts they were working on. There are a pile of these scripts with unnamed titles and writers in their offices.

Some claim it was way too early for Marvel to consider casting for the role, which is kind of stupid if you ask me. Marvel is known for introducing characters in other installments, other than their solo adventures. Black Panther being a prime example, as he'll be first seen in costume in Captain America: Civil War and will get his own film in 2017. Marvel had been looking at actors for Panther for years before they announced Chadwick Boseman. I have a suspicion that Danvers might also have a role to play in Civil War as well.

Why would Marvel cast an actor before a director is even attached? It's likely a simple answer, they have a director already lined-up (Feige said we'll hear a director before casting) or they always knew they wanted Emily for the role (hence name on the top of their list). Due to her previous casting as Black Widow in Iron Man 2. I'm sure this was done without the awareness of Blunt, but they could have promised her another role in the future.

So who could they have in mind to direct? A bit of speculation on my part, but I have a sneaking feeling that Joss Whedon might be person behind this film. Clearly, early development took place behind closed-doors and Kevin Feige seemingly hints a director might be already chosen. We already know that The Russo Brothers are apparently wanted to direct the two Infinity War installments. Where does this leave Whedon if he's not making Avengers anymore?

That's a question a lot of people haven't been asking, automatically thinking he's done with Marvel (even though he has talked about writing a new Hulk film). Joss did show-up to that Phase Three announcement at the El Capitan, odd since none of his films are apart of that slate. I think it would be sort of odd that he would show-up just for his sneak peek. I'm sure he wanted to hear the fan reaction just as much as Feige did. What if he was directing one of those announced films?


Joss is known for writing strong female characters and already has a working relationship with Kevin Feige/Marvel. It wouldn't be hard to imagine Marvel insisting Whedon develop the film. He did plan on writing-directing Wonder Woman for Warner Bros. It would eventually get killed, and he would move on to Avengers instead. That potential for a female-driven superhero story could be refocused with a film like Captain Marvel. We've heard some interesting things from Whedon about the character. However, a recent interview with HeyUGuys gave some insight he or Marvel may have cracked the character. This eventually became true as the solo film is expected to come out July 2018. Whedon is known for keeping his mouth shut about scripts, and is the kind of writer to keep a secret Marvel script from scoopers.

If Joss Whedon is making Captain Marvel why are they waiting until 2018 to release it? I think we know the answer to this as well, he's going to be fucking exhausted once he's completed with the press rounds for Age of Ultron. It also might have to do with the overall release plans of Marvel and not just Joss possibly wanting to make more indie films. Whedon went straight into shooting A Much Ado About Nothing right after the Avengers release, that could happen again taking up a good chunk of his time. Having him tackle a smaller production would also give him enough time to put together the best script possible. I'm not excluding the idea that we'll see her possibly in both Age of Ultron and Civil War too.



SOURCE: SCREENCRUSH

The Russo Brothers Indeed In The Running To Direct AVENGERS INFINITY WAR

BadassDigest posted a juicy rumor that the Russo Brothers (Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War) were being looked-at to takeover the Avengers franchise from Joss Whedon. Deadline is hearing the same thing and both parts of Infinity War could shoot back to back.

Marvel is investing a huge amount on the directing siblings. The more we hear about the plans for Captain America: Civil War the bigger it sounds like the film will be. Something we didn't really get with Iron Man 3, but will likely be our last quasi Earthbound Avengers installment. I'm also curious what this means for the future relationship between Whedon and Marvel. Will he move on, or will he try to tackle other Marvel properties like Captain Marvel and Hulk?

SOURCE: DEADLINE

AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR Split Into Two Movies And Thanos Confirmed As Villain

Plans for Avengers 3 were also revealed, confirming reports that indeed the movie was being split into two parts. Titled Avengers: Infinity War Part 1 coming May 2018 and Avengers: Infinity War Part 2 May 2019, the installments will be shown in theatres a year apart. A short teaser clip was shown, as seen above with Thanos holding the infinity gauntlet. The ultimate cosmic weapon in the universe. This confirms that Josh Brolin's Thanos will indeed be the villain of the film. It looks the footage is test-shots from Guardians of The Galaxy, which isn't surprising since he'll show-up again in the sequel.

The movie is said to be set mostly in space, which could mean that the Guardians will be crossing-over to fight a common enemy. It's unknown if we'll see characters like Captain Marvel or The Inhumans in the first installment, since their solo films will come after Part 1. There is already rumblings via BadassDigest that Thor will be sitting this one out, make of that as you will.

They didn't name writers, but it's been reported that when the Russo Brothers wrap-up Captain America: Civil War they could direct these two Avengers films. I'm not sure what this means for Joss Whedon, as the director might look at one of these other Marvel properties to direct. I wouldn't rule-out a new Hulk movie in Phase Four, or even taking a crack Captain Marvel.


SOURCE: MARVEL

Marvel Pulls A Fake-Out And Announces CAPTAIN MARVEL Movie For 2018

Another huge Phase Three announcement was that Captain Marvel is coming July 2018, and she will indeed be Carol Danvers. The comic reboot of the character has been one of the more popular female titles and the super-powered heroine has long been championed to join the Marvel cinematic universe. Marvel's Kevin Feige confirmed that the film has been in development at the studio just as long as Doctor Strange.

"This film has been in the works almost as long as Doctor Strange or Guardians of the Galaxy before it came out, and one of the key things was figuring out what we wanted to do with it. Her adventures are very earthbound, but her powers are based in the cosmic realm.”


Like I've stated dozens of times, Marvel has a draft already in place. However, a new writer and director aren't ready to be announced. Production on the film more than likely won't begin until 2017, they the studio has plenty of time to find a director. There are already rumblings she'll have a cameo in Age of Ultron, this announcement will likely keep that rumor kicking until it's confirmed or debunked in May.

I'm still placing a huge bet we'll be seeing former Black Widow actress Emily Blunt as Carol Danvers in 2018. My hunches have payed-off recently with Chadwick Boseman confirmed for Black Panther and Benedict Cumberbatch the frontrunner for Doctor Strange. Hopefully, this casting support for Blunt get's the Marvel stamp of approval as well. The actress best known for kick-ass roles in Edge of Tomorrow and Looper, has been linked for the role since 2012.



SOURCE: MARVEL 

Claudia Kim Might Be The Fourth Lady In AVENGERS AGE OF ULTRON But What Is Her Role?

Besides the reveal of Andy Serkis in the teaser trailer for Age of Ultron, one more thing fans are curious about. Who is that third woman at that party scene with the rest of the Avengers? It hasn't been confirmed but it looks like it just might be Claudia Kim.



Claudia's role in Avengers Age of Ultron might be bigger than we are expecting. Considering she very well might be the third lady at the party Ultron crashes in the recent teaser trailer. A lot of people were claiming this was just Jane Foster played by Natalie Portman, but she was never added to the film's lineup. Kim actually confirmed her role in the film to ScreenSlam on the red carpet of the premeire of Captain America: The Winter Soldier.



I think it's more mysterious who her character might turnout to be in the film, rather than the fact she's getting screen time in the teaser. Mainly, because there are so many female roles to be filled for the Marvel cinematic universe. Sometimes we can over estimate a supporting actresses' role the Marvel films. However, Joss Whedon confirmed to HeyUGuys that fourth female character fit into the film somehow. Is it possible that Kim's character is that fourth lady?

At this point all we know about Claudia's character is that she is "a doctor/sciencetist who is friends with Tony Stark". A pretty damn vague character description, which must make Marvel less nervous about her talking to press about it. Who could Kim be playing?

That list is a long one, but a couple of key characters might fit well into this storyline. One name that comes to mind is Betty Ross, the scientist peer of Bruce Banner. Kevin, Mark and Joss have all spoke to the increased role Banner will have in the sequel, so it wouldn't be hard to imagine having important people in his life show-up, now that's living stateside.

We know that it's extremely possible the rest of the Incredible Hulk cast will be rebooted, having a new actress play Betty would be a natural step. Even more so if Marvel was indeed planning on moving forward with a new Hulk film. Betty also worked with SHIELD during the Ultimates, which the movies are heavily influenced by. She would also eventually become a hulk herself (Red She-Hulk). Including her would be a possible way to get around the use of Jennifer Walters and another green hulk, for the moment. Would Marvel push forward with another superpowered heroine other than Captain Marvel?

The friend aspect might clue us in as well. We do know that Tony's best buddy is Jim Rhodes who works for the Air Force. Well there is a female Marvel character that also works for the Air Force. That would be Carol Danvers (not to mention the C.I.A. and NASA), better known as Ms Marvel/Captain Marvel. It wouldn't be much of a stretch to make Carol friends with Rhodey, placing her into Stark's circle of friends. Danvers has a background with the C.I.A. and they've already established Sharon Carter is working with them after leaving SHIELD. There have been rumblings Claudia's character could have twist and his hiding among the Avengers for other motives. It's possible she's spying for the US Government (C.I.A.?) or whatever SHIELD has become after it's fall.

Carol isn't a stranger to science as well, and does spend some time working for NASA. This working environment could lead to the accident that gives her powers, or something similar to what happened in the comics.

Marvel is in active-development of a Captain Marvel film, and a script had already been drafted at one point. There was even early casting talk back in 2012, which was linked to the Avengers sequel. We've also heard buzz about her cameo in the film, being referred to as Ms Marvel at the end of the film. It would seem odd to have her at the end of the film. Could this be the reason why Marvel hasn't announced Captain Marvel, because they want to keep her a secret for Age of Ultron?

Another idea is that she's a member of the every sneaky HYDRA, who already have a presence in this film with Strucker creating the twins (Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch) and likely Captain America 3. A super-spy character like this wouldn't have much trouble embedding herself with someone like Tony Stark or the Avengers. We've been dying for Madame Hydra to finally show-up, in the films, and they are lacking in the way of developed female villains in the MCU. Marvel still owns the rights to use Madam Hydra as she's a long standing Captain America and Avengers villain. One of her aliases "Viper" was used in The Wolverine, mainly because of her connection to the hero and the X-Men. While none of her connections to Hydra were used in the film, including her codename/title or real name. Although, they did make Viper a doctor/scientist in the film. We know that Marvel has a slight issue with Fox, and have no problem pushing forward with characters already in the X-Men stable that they share. Adding Madame Hydra to the fold wouldn't surprise me a bit.

Another aspect to Madame Hydra is her roots with Asia. She has ties to the Yakuza in Japan, not to mention is the ruler/dictator of the fictional island country of Madripoor. HYDRA controlled country modelled after Singapore, that just happens to be located in Southeast Asia. The island is the launching-ground for many of the group's terrorist plots. While the island is very James Bond, it existing might explain where they could be setting up shop, once they've been rooted out of North America and Europe. Yes, the location is connected to X-Men, but I think the fact it also has a Hydra link might give them the ability to share it with Fox. Hiring an Asian actress like Kim for the role of Ophelia would make sense, but it also wouldn't be a requirement.

Marvel shot on location in South Korea, while I doubt they would replace the country with the fictional location of Madripoor (Hydra's base of operations). There is already talk of Italy doubling for Marvel's fictional Eastern European country Latveria (home of Wanda and Pietro Maximoff), and possibly (unlikely) that the South Africa shoot would include scenes for Wakanda (birthplace and kingdom of Black Panther). All three locations are fictional Marvel countries and could be a way to expand the scale of the Earthbound mythology for future movies.

We already know that Marvel is ramping-up Captain America 3, and having Hydra return in a big way is key. Tony Stark getting involved in the film brings-up a lot of possible story angles, which will spark the events of Civil War. Stark resurrecting SHIELD, for selfish reasons or restore the legacy of his father (Howard Stark helped create the organization). He eventually becomes the director of SHIELD (already rumored Tony takes a Fury role in MCU) and this could put the events in motion that sees the Avengers team split-up and fight each other.

What could possibly piss-off Rogers even more than rebuilding SHIELD after he spent all that effort and blood tearing it down? Working with the enemy to get results. Stark might not have that strong connection fighting Hydra, and might see them as an asset if twisted in his favor. There is point where he makes deals with the likes of Baron Zemo and the Thunderbolts (the return of Crossbones?). Tony working with a now legitimized Hydra could push Steve over the edge. Fuelling another attempt to takedown a bulling government organization that Rogers sees as corrupt and harmful to the world. These possible actions mixed with a "join SHIELD or be imprisoned" policy with the SRA, could lead to some crazy shit going down.

The thought of Stark becoming the unintentional villain of Captain America 3 would be worth seeing come together. Giving that amazing edge that we saw in Winter Soldier, where basically the rules of a superhero film are kind of thrown out the window to give us a strong/compelling story. The title Captain America: The Fallen Son could also allude to Stark's heroic status slowly fading away.

Could Kim take on the villainous role of Ophelia Sarkissian, alongside Baron Strucker and the modern incarnation of HYDRA? Will she playing more of a supporting role as Betty Ross or the future heroine Carol Danvers? The answers are clearly, we don't know for sure. And until someone get's confirmation from studio sources we're going to be in the dark for a little while. Who do you think Claudia Kim is playing in the Avengers sequel? And remember HAIL HYDRA!

Marvel Teasing BLACK PANTHER Villain In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Trailer?

The trailer for Avengers: Age of Ultron, leaked yesterday and it only took a couple of hours for Marvel to release the HD version. A very smart move on their part, and we can get closer looks at all the footage that is being shown. One frame is getting fans excited that the studio could already be teasing future films. In this case it's  Black Panther, some are saying this link could be the character that Andy Serkis (Dawn of The Planet of The Apes, King Kong, Star Wars Episode VII, The Hobbit, Lord of The Rings) is playing. You can see the creepy and stunning trailer below.

Fans are speculating that this flash of Andy Serkis is enough to figure-out who he's playing in the film. Pointing-out his fantastic Lincoln beard is extremely similar to that of Ulysses Klaw, a major supervillain in the Black Panther comics. I can't say he doesn't look like him, but we've seen misdirections by Marvel and Whedon before. While we do know that Wakanda (home of The Black Panther) will be making appearance in the sequel. There hasn't been any sign that T'Chaka or T'Challa will be showing-up. It looks like he's in some sort of prison uniform or maybe a kaki HYDRA outfit. Perhaps, apart of their African branch? We know that movie will head to South Africa, where Hulk fights the Hulkbuster.

The prison aspect and Serkis' long standing work with motion capture makes me believe he could also be playing a rebooted version of Emil Blonsky (sorry, Tim Roth). Andy's mo-cap company worked on the film and with actor Mark Ruffalo for his Hulk performances. It wouldn't be hard to see Ultron create his own version of the Masters of Evil, we already see seeds of this with Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver seemingly working alongside Ultron. I'm sure it's possible Ultron could gather other meta-humans good or bad to join his cause, including the Hulk-level villain Abomination (who is a canon member of the Masters of Evil). There had been rumblings for a while now, that the Masters of Evil would somehow feature in the film.

I will also point-out that Klaw is a member of the Masters of Evil, along with the established Advanced Idea Mechanics which was introduced in Iron Man 3.  The A.I.M. link could lead him to be involved with HYDRA. Since we've seen Baron Strucker revealed to be heading experiments, a villain who actually created A.I.M. as a splinter group of HYDRA. I wouldn't be too shocked to see Klaw working with Strucker, or running his own division of the terrorist group (perhaps, trying to get ahold of Wakandian technology for weapons?). Setting-up a villain for a future film via this sequel would be a great play by Marvel. Considering that younger Marvel audiences would be aware of Black Panther, thanks to the cartoons and comics. However, not so much with mostly obscure villain Klaw.

This tidbit would also suggest that Marvel Studios has found an actor to play T'Challa, our favorite Wakandian Avenger. There have been plenty of names who have put themselves into the mix or were rumored including Michael K. Williams (12 Years A Slave, Boardwalk Empire, The Wire, The Road, Kill The Messenger), Idris Elba (Pacific Rim, Thor, Luther), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Serenity, Children of Men, 12 Years A Slave), Denzel Washington (Equalizer, Training Day, Man on Fire), and John Boyega (Attack The Block, Star Wars Episode VII). However, it seems like the casting rumors halted once Chadwick Boseman (42, Gods of Eygpt, Get On Up) was reportedly a front-runner.

Do you think Marvel is about to announce plans for Black Panther?

Scarlett Johansson Wanted Badly For GHOST IN THE SHELL, Studio Offers Actress $10M

While Marvel Studios sleeps on the opportunity to make a Black Widow franchise. Other studios are taking advantage of Scarlett Johansson's rising action stardom. Lucy recently broke $400 million worldwide, beating the huge budgeted Hercules on opening weekend domestically. Even though, the French production cost $40 million to make.

Dreamworks wants Johansson baldy for their adaptation of the manga/anime Ghost In The Shell. Deadline reports the studio is offering the lead role, along with a $10 million payday. Margot Robbie was originally linked for the role, but could take a lead in Suicide Squad instead. An offer she would unlikely be getting from Marvel Studios. Her contract with Marvel is coming to an end, and it's unlikely the studio will want to re-up her contract. Knowing she would be asking for more money, and possibly her own feature.

Director Rupert Sanders (Snow White And The Hunstman, Live-Action Halo Commercials) has been tapped to direct Shell, and could become a launching-point for a very cool female-driven action franchise.







SOURCE: DEADLINE

Jeremy Renner Game For A HAWKEYE Spin-Off Film

Another week, and another Marvel actor has changed their tune. Robert Downey Jr. flip-flopped when asked about Iron Man 4's development last week. Only to reveal that there were indeed zero plans to make it at the moment. Now while promoting his buzz-worthy film Kill The Messenger, Jeremy Renner is changing previous statements concerning a Hawkeye solo movie.

Renner had been asked about his desire to have a solo outing as Clint Barton, but was quick to point-out that his character was getting flushed-out in Age of Ultron and possibly Captain America 3. Being completely comfortable with being apart of the assemble. However, during his Reddit AMA he sounded a bit more optimistic, that's if Marvel decides to make a spin-off focusing on Mr. Barton. Here's what Jeremy had to say when asked about a Hawkeye movie (maybe West Coast Avengers?).

"Am I interested? Always have been interested. I always love Clint, and in the last Avengers: Age of Ultron, we got to dive into him some more. Very excited about the outcome of it, and where it can go in the future. But all I can do is want. And that's all I can do. It all comes down to the content, and really how the puppeteers at Marvel can manifest a story that's worthy of a solo movie. Not sure what that is, or how that is, but I'm confident they can do whatever they want, if they want to do it. And I'd be game."

 SOURCE: REDDIT

Will BOURNE LEGACY Sequel Delays Give Jeremy Renner Time To Shoot Scenes For CAPTAIN AMERICA 3?

It's being reported that Universal is putting the breaks on the Bourne Legacy sequel, in favor for Matt Damon's return. This isn't the worst thing for Jeremy Renner. The sequel's looming production put in question if he'd be able to shoot scenes for Captain America 3. Renner's Clint Barton was originally expected to have a part to play in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (confirmed by directors The Russo Brothers and Renner), but scheduling became a bit of a problem.

Nothing is ruling-out Renner showing-up in this other Bourne project. However, I'd expect it to be just Damon and Greengrass. Director Justin Lin has been linked for directing a couple of season two episodes of HBO's True Detective, it adds more fuel to the thought we'll see further production delays.

Jeremy mentioned to Collider he would be game to be apart of the third film, that's if his production schedule allowed him to. He's currently shooting Mission: Impossible 5, but with Bourne delays it's possible that Renner could be available for the April start on Captain America 3. The Russo Brothers are also open to the idea, and I'd love to see them work with the character. They've done wonders reworking both Rogers and Natasha. We've been hearing that Marvel has big plans for Hawkeye, as the Avenger will have a larger role in Age of Ultron. In the comics, Barton takes-on a leadership role as the team leader of The West Coast Avengers, a splinter group of the main lineup. There are already rumors that Steve Rogers starts putting together a second team by the end of Ultron.

“There are rumblings of Captain America 3. I don’t know what’s going to happen there. I’ve got to find the time, man (laughs). I’m trying to stay home and I can’t.” 

A Better Look At Paul Bettany As The Vision Via Promo Art From AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

CBM was able to find a banner image of promo art for Avengers: Age of Ultron, likely for the toys. This image gives us our best look at Paul Bettany as android hero The Vision. Even though it's low resolution, we have a great idea of what to expect from the character's costume design. A teaser trailer is expected in the coming months, which I assume will feature the Vision. Not to mention, Marvel's usual promotional blitz will soon go into full-gear.

SOURCE: INSTAGRAM

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