Vin Diesel Still Teasing Black Bolt Role In Marvel's INHUMANS

Ever since he took the Groot role in Guardians of The Galaxy, actor Vin Diesel has been hinting to a second Marvel role. Diesel has been pointing to a large part in Marvel's Inhumans film. That was announced by Marvel in October for a November 2018 release date. He took to Facebook and posted this image, clearly teasing involvement with Inhumans.

We've suspected for ages he could be up for the role of silent leader Black Bolt. Giving his voice to Groot and his body to the Inhuman, a way for him to play two roles.

Marvel has been planting seeds for the film with the finale of Agents of SHIELD. It's also expected to see the origin of Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver in Age of Ultron reflect their possible Inhuman connections, which are now being teased in the comics.

The cast for the film might be on the level of the X-Men films, since there a bunch of Marvel characters the studio could make Inhuman. Instead of explaining their extensive or wacky backstories, just pegging them as Inhuman could help build a world as big as the X-Men universe. Characters like Tigra and Quake will be Inhuman, but it's unknown if they'll make the film.

We know that Namor The Sub-Mariner was originally a mutant, but if Marvel figured-out a deal with Universal (sitting on the film rights) they could use character as a focal-point in an Inhumans film. Having the Atlantean a splinter royal family within the Inhumans group. Kevin Feige confirmed to IGN during the summer that indeed a deal of some sorts would be need to be worked-out with Universal. Since, we've seen Marvel try to work things-out with Sony there's a strong possibility Namor could join the MCU. Let's face it, Universal isn't making a solo film anytime soon and they'd get a hefty loan fee for Marvel to use Namor.

It’s slightly more complicated than that. Let’s put it this way – there are entanglements that make it less easy. There are older contracts that still involve other parties that mean we need to work things out before we move forward on it. As opposed to an Iron Man or any of the Avengers or any of the other Marvel characters where we could just put them in.

SOURCE: VIN DIESEL

Scarlet Witch Joining The Lineup For X-MEN: APOCALYPSE?

We already have confirmation of sorts that Gambit played by Channing Tatum, will likely appear in X-Men: Apocalypse. Other favorites like Nightcrawler, Cyclops, Jean Grey and Storm could get rebooted for the sequel as well, while not entirely confirmed. These "new" additions would be younger versions as the film is set in the 1980's alongside Beast, Mystique, Magneto, Xavier, Wolverine and Quicksilver. However, we could be getting yet another character thrown into the group.

Simon Kinberg and Bryan Singer have already mentioned that Scarlet Witch's introduction was cut-out of Days of Future Past last minute. Kinberg now reveals to TotalFilm during an interview, that they shot the footage. It does exist, maybe we'll get to see it on the Blu Ray release? He also confirms what we all expected to hear, that Quicksilver will be in the sequel.

This might not be the last we hear of Wanda's inclusion in the franchise. I've heard that Fox wants to include Scarlet in the next film, but I have zero idea how big her role could be. It's the main reason I was sure she was going to show-up in Days of Future Past. They could rework the original introduction, or she might end-up a major player in the sequel. Treat as a rumor, but if they were willing to introduce her and shot the scene, it's likely they will want to use Scarlet Witch in Apocalypse.

The character will also be getting massive exposure thanks to Avengers: Age of Ultron, and the studio will likely want to capitalize on sharing the character with Marvel Studios. Fox needs to add more female character into the mix, as Jennifer Lawrence's Mystique is really the only woman represented in the 70's scenes. Placing Scarlet, Jean and Storm into the sequel would at least overshadow the Avengers lack of female super-powered heroines. Although Ms/Captain Marvel is rumored for an appearance in Age of Ultron, Elizbeth Olsen's Scarlet Witch is the only one confirmed.

If I had to pick an actress that would make an excellent Scarlet Witch, who is also around the same age as Evan Peters (27). It would have to be Game of Thrones actress Rose Lesile, who has the look and the attitude needed for a role like this. Let's face-it, Fox needs to up their casting game if they want to compete with Marvel Studios. Hiring unknowns just isn't going to cut it anymore. Currently, the script is still being written, while a production start hasn't been announced. Even though, Apocalypse is set for release in 2016.

SOURCE: TOTALFILM

FIRST LOOK! Elizabeth Olsen And Aaron Johnson On Set For AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON In Italy (Doubling For Eastern Europe)

First unit is finally shooting in Italy for Avengers: Age of Ultron, as we get our first glimpses of the actors in costume. The high volume of photos are making the rounds Twitter and blogs-alike (JustJared). We see Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye (sans SHIELD patch) along with our first looks at Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch and Aaron Johnson as Quicksilver.

A stand-in for Ultron or his horde of bots also showed-up on set, but isn't a great representing the final look of the deadly robots. Since they're CGI characters and won't actually be shown in-camera with actors during set shoots. The Italian set is actually doubling for a Eastern European country, likely Serbia or the fictional country Transia.

Paul Bettany's J.A.R.V.I.S To Become The Vision In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

It looks like Paul Bettany's Jarvis is getting an upgrade afterall, it had been previously rumored that Jarvis (Tony Stark's A.I.) would become Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron. However, that didn't seem to be the case when James Spader was announced to play the villain instead. Yet, news from TheDailyMail states that Bettany is going to be still involved in the sequel in a big way. He'll instead play Avengers villain turned member The Vision in the film. Making this the first time Paul might be shown in camera within the MCU. There had been also speculation that this role could possibly go to Clark Gregg, but that won't be happening either.

This could be an interesting turn of events, as The Vision (Paul Bettany) ends up getting romantically involved with Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen). I doubt this will be explored in Age of Ultron, but this will at least give fans three new Avengers members on screen. It's expected both characters will start-off as villains, as Vision is a creation of Ultron and Scarlet is rumored to be the daughter of Baron Wolfgang von Strucker.


SOURCE: DAILYMAIL

Sam Jackson Confirming Elizabeth Olsen For Scarlet Witch In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON?

While speaking with WSJ, Sam "Nick Fury" Jackson dished a bit on the production of Avengers: Age of Ultron. Confirming that shooting would begin before March and that James Spader is playing Ultron. However, he added one unannounced detail about the film. That Elizabeth Olsen will indeed be apart of the film. Neither, Marvel or outlets have confirmed Olsen for the role of Scarlet Witch which she had been in talks for. Jackson previously worked with Olsen on Spike Lee's Oldboy and Aaron Johnson (Quicksilver candidate) worked with her recently on Legendary Pictures' Godzilla.

“I don’t think we begin shooting before March of next year. I know we’re shooting in London, that James Spader is Ultron and going to be the bad guy, and that we added Ms. [Elizabeth] Olsen [who will play the Scarlet Witch], but I don’t know what she’s doing, if she’s on the inside or the outside. I haven’t seen a script.”

James Spader Confirmed As Villain Ultron In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

Marvel today via Twitter has announced that character actor James Spader (Stargate, Lincoln, Pretty In Pink, Wall Street, Supernova) will play the villainous Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It had been assumed that Paul Bettany would play the villain but it seems like that has been debunked. However, the angle of Tony Stark building Ultron or transforming from JARVIS remains to be seen. Spader is an seasoned actor and I'm excited to see what he can do with the character. No confirmation concerning Aaron Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen joining the cast has been announced.

Elizabeth Olsen In Final Talks To Play Scarlet Witch In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

BleedingCool recently reported on rumblings that Marvel was keen on having Elizabeth Olsen (Martha Marcy May Marlene) take on the role of Scarlet Witch in Avengers: Age of Ultron. THR is supporting the story that early talks with Olsen are indeed true. She recently wrapped production on Godzilla which co-stars Aaron Johnson, who is currently the front-runner for the Quicksilver role. Olsen and Johnson are basically the same age which would be needed since the siblings are twins. There is also word that the pair will be using British accents instead of having a rumored Eastern European background (ala Black Widow).

Aaron Johnson Gives Possible Character Details On Quicksilver In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON, Sounds Like He Has The Role

The more Aaron Johnson (Kick-Ass 1-2, Godzilla) talks about Quicksilver in interviews the more it sounds like he pretty much has the role. Just the passion and the detail he talks about the character gives the impression that Marvel is indeed interested. A new interview with TotalFilm has the actor giving a few character details that he likes about Quicksilver. Could these details be the building-blocks of what we'll see in Age of Ultron? Johnson's involvement reminds me of the dragged out casting of Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, who gave similar answers in the early talks to play Clint Barton.

"There's years - over 50 years - of backstory on him all there to use, and I like doing that. Him and his sister [Scarlet Witch] have been abandoned by their parents and their father, and they grew up in Eastern Europe defending and looking out for themselves and each other....His sister really is his guidance - emotionally she's the one who looks after him, and vice versa. He's very overprotective physically - he doesn't want anyone touching her.....He has real anger frustration - I like that. I always thought it'd be quite funny if you saw him eating loads and people asked him why and he'd explain it's because he's burning so much energy all the time. Or ideas that you'd see him come back round - but he's already nipped out and got his lunch somewhere else. He just got bored - his attention span is so fucking quick."

"That's what we're in talks about really, right now - how I could become that character and not feel forced. I might not look right with white hair, and the accent may be wrong... it just doesn't work like that....It's about - unless you're Jim Carrey or Nic Cage and go 'This is the character', people go ‘OK, OK…’ “When people haven't been shown your range like that, then they're a bit more skeptical - they may not want you to push the boundaries in that way. But that's what I'm interested in as an actor…"

Joss Whedon Announces Ultron As The Villain In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Teasing Tigra As Well And Aaron Johnson Comments On Quicksilver Casting

Joss Whedon has finally announced the title for the Avengers sequel which is entitled Avengers: Age Of Ultron. Confirming that Ultron will be the villain of the feature instead of the long rumored Thanos. Whedon goes even further by stating they'll altering his origin as Hank Pym won't be his creator. It had been thought that Ultron would be saved for Ant-Man or introduced there first. That doesn't seem to be the case and the robotic baddie could instead have connections to Captain America: The Winter Soldier instead.

Joss also mentioned to DigitalSpy his interest in trying to get female Avenger Tigra "The Were Woman" added to the lineup. Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver (Aaron Johnson?) have been confirmed as new additions as well and could end up villains too. He's stated problems with trying to use both Wonder Man and Ms. Marvel/Captain Marvel as they aren't cinematic or compelling enough characters. Tigra would be something different and would finally give a us a female heroine with powers. It's possible that Whedon could make lesser known Avengers members compelling and have stay within the Avengers franchise.

"I kind of have a thing for Tigra; I'm not gonna lie. I remember being an adolescent boy going, 'She's furry, but that should be gross and it's kind of not. That's hot!" 

While promoting both Kick-Ass 2 and Godzilla actor Aaron Johnson briefly commented on the talk that he is being pursued for the role of Quicksilver in Avengers: Age of Ultron to MTV. Oddly enough, he doesn't deny anything but gives hints it's a strong possibility. It's starting to sound like the character ends up on the villainous-side of a divided S.H.I.E.L.D. which is expected to be seen in Captain America: The Winter Solider.

“Oh, that’s um, I don’t think I can talk about that, but it’s definitely an exciting prospect…”

“Yeah, it really is. [QuickSilver] has a really interesting character and background. In fact, my wife has just been out and bought the first ever cover, a really really old vintage one where it’s the first time Quicksilver’s ever been on the front cover.”

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.

Aaron Johnson Front-Runner For Quicksilver In AVENGERS 2

TheWrap is reporting that British actor Aaron Johnson (Kick-Ass 1-2, Godzilla, Anna Karenina, Savages) is the front-runner to play Quicksilver in Joss Whedon's Avengers 2. Recently, Bryan Singer cast Aaron's Kick-Ass co-star Evan Peters in the same role in X-Men Days of Future Past. However, since both Fox and Marvel share the character rights (Scarlet Witch and Qucksilver) they are eligible to hire different actors to play them. There was some question if they would have the same pair of actors play the roles in both films but that doesn't seem to be the case.

Aaron Johnson was actually in the running for a role in X-Men First Class. Which was likely Hank McCoy/Beast that ended up going to Nicholas Hoult (who was championed by then producer Bryan Singer). There was also speculation Johnson was in the mix for Cyclops or even Gambit but neither characters ended in First Class. Aaron was also a possible candidate for Peter Parker in Marc Webb's Amazing Spider-Man but role ultimately went to Andrew Garfield. So it's likely he's keen on a Marvel role it's just finding the right one. Marvel is rumored to be looking at Irish actress Saoirse Ronan (Hanna) for the role of Scarlet Witch.

Joss Whedon Hinting Again That Scarlet Witch And Quicksilver Might Be Villains In AVENGERS 2?

While promoting his new feature film Much Ado About Nothing, Joss Whedon spoke briefly on The Tavis Smiley Show (via CBM) about the sequel. He talked about including Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver in Avengers 2. Which seemingly hinted to their history of being foes of The Avengers. An aspect that has been sort of hinted at previously by Joss. The main villain of the sequel seemingly might come down to Thanos, The Collector (Benicio Del Toro?) or Ronan The Accuser but it's sounding like the Maximoff twins will also give The Avengers some conflict. It's not known if Evan Peters (Kick-Ass, American Horror Story) will also play Quicksilver in the sequel, after being cast in the role for X-Men Days of Future Past.

"We are introducing Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch who are mainstays of The Avengers universe, they're foes, they've been allies and they're very interesting to me because I grew up reading The Avengers. They have powers that are visually exciting, different from the characters we've seen before so I'm excited to knock them against The Avengers and see what shakes loose." 

Evan Peters Cast As Quicksilver In X-MEN DAYS OF FUTURE PAST And Saoirse Ronan Comments On Scarlet Witch (AVENGERS 2)

Director Bryan Singer has announced on Twitter that he's cast Evan Peters (American Horror Story, Kick-Ass) as Quicksilver in X-Men Days of Future Past. Joss Whedon recently confirmed plans to add Scarlet and Quicksilver in the Avengers sequel. No word if Peters will also play the role in Avengers 2 but he seems to be the right age for the part. Since Marvel was looking to cast Saoirse Ronan as Scarlet Witch having Peters playing her brother would make sense. Some believe this is Fox throwing down the gauntlet by having the character first appear in their film. However, it's quite possible Marvel and Fox are playing nice allowing the actors to play the characters in both franchises.

Also, Saoirse Ronan commented on the talk of Marvel being keen on her taking the role (using her as the blueprint for casting) of Scarlet Witch in Avengers 2. She knows about the rumors and is open to the role. Ronan had been in the running for the major female role in The Hobbit trilogy and was a powerhouse in Hanna with her stunning action sequences.

TO BE CONSIDERED: Who Should Play Scarlet Witch And Quicksilver In AVENGERS 2?

It has been confirmed by Joss Whedon that villain siblings turned heroes Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver will be new additions to Avengers 2. Whedon added they would represent an aspect of the world not entirely thrilled with the Avengers. Nothing says this statement means they'll be straight up villains (Thunderbolts/H.A.M.M.E.R.) but sounds like they'll have their clashes with the team. I assume the brass at S.H.I.E.L.D. and World Governments could be unhappy that they have superheroes running around without leashes. Which might be the seeds of Civil War which has been teased before.

Apparently, Marvel might be using Saoirse Ronan as a possible model for Scarlet Witch. Not sure if that means they'll be looking for an actress her age or someone with a similar mix of action/dramatic roles. Marvel will likely hold off announcing any casting for Avengers 2 and Phase Three's Ant-Man until Comic-Con 2013 in July. Yet, I have a few names that could make the mutant siblings really standout.

SCARLET WITCH (WANDA MAXIMOFF)

RUTH WILSON (Luther, Lone Ranger, The Prisoner, Anna Karenina): Ruth Wilson has some serious Marvel connections playing roles alongside actors Idris Elba, Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell. Even actor Ian McKellen who plays her character's would be father Magneto. She had been linked for possible talks for a role in Avengers 2 months back. Disney might be looking to up her profile as Ruth already is the female lead in their Lone Ranger tentpole this Summer.

JESSICA CHASTAIN (Zero Dark Thirty, The Help, Lawless, Mama): Jessica almost played Maya Hensen in Iron Man 3 but ultlmtely took the lead in Zero Dark Thirty instead. While earning an Oscar nomination for ZDT, she did state being open to working with Marvel in the future. She has the talent and popularity to bring enough life to the character.

JESSICA BROWN FINDLAY: Jessica was in the running for a role in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and also had a small cameo in Iron Man 3 with her scenes from Downton Abbey playing in the background. Marvel seems to love television actors for new roles and Witch would be a role that would likely become a staple for future Avengers sequels. Similar to hiring Tom Hiddleston as Loki, Findlay could balance out playing baddie and anti-heroine.


QUICKSILVER (PIETRO MAXIMOFF)

BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH (Hobbit Trilogy, Star Trek Into Darkness, Fifth Estate, Sherlock): Benedict has long been a fan favorite to play Doctor Strange but his current run of playing villains could make him an excellent Quicksilver. To be honest I could careless about Quicksilver but someone like Ben could really give substantial dimension to him. His turn in Star Trek Into Darkness proved his ruthlessness as a villain which might be needed for the Avengers sequel to be darker than the previous one. Marvel has a history of casting Star Trek alumni with Chris Hemsworth (Thor) and Zoe Saldana (Gamora) taking roles. Other cast members such as Chris Pine and Alice Eve had been in the mix for the leads in Captain America: The First Avenger. Even Simon Pegg has stated interest in playing a villain in Edgar Wright's Ant-Man.

RYAN GOSLING (Drive, Place Beyond The Pines, Only God Forgives): Getting Ryan Gosling is a bit of a longshot but I think he could work well with Joss Whedon and the cast. He's a very dedicated actor with dramatic chops but might be harder to lure into a Marvel contract. The fact he's almost entirely sworn off comic book films would be a giant get for the studio. Ryan's got a solid background with stunt training (martial arts, weapons, stunt driving/motorcycling) thanks to his numerous action films such as Drive, Only God Forgives, Gangster Squad and The Place Beyond The Pines.

CHARLIE HUNNAM (Sons Of Anarchy, Pacific Rim, Green Street Hooligans): Charlie is very suitable actor that could work within the Marvel blueprint. While he has Pacific Rim on the horizon this  Summer it hasn't made him a household name at this point. Similar to Cumberbatch, Charlie has a massive following thanks to his series S.O.A. Originally, Charlie had been one of the few candidates to play Thor before Chris Hemsworth ended up being cast in the role. He was recently linked for possibly playing The Flash in Justice League but that film is being put on hold until the box office returns for Man of Steel come in. Marvel would be smart to sign Hunnam up before Pacific Rim 2 or Justice League gets a greenlight.

Joss Whedon Confims Scarlet Witch And Quicksilver For Avengers 2, Saoirse Ronan The Model For Casting Witch?

What started off as a strong rumor has been confirmed by the man himself. As Joss Whedon confirms the inclusion of brother/sister Avenger members Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver for the upcoming sequel. Speaking to IGN Joss gave some insight into the reason for including them. While nothing is confirmed it's possible the duo could end up replacing Hawkeye and Black Widow. There had been a bit of backlash from including the non-traditional Avengers members since they didn't actually have powers.

“You know, they had a rough beginning. They’re interesting to me because they sort of represent the part of the world that wouldn’t necessarily agree with The Avengers. So they’re not there to make things easier. I’m not putting any characters in the movie that will make things easier.”

Oddly enough, Irish actress Saoirse Ronan is being mentioned (via SuperheroHype) as the blueprint for Scarlet Witch. This could mean that Marvel is looking for an actress in her late teens or early 20's for the part. Ronan is best known for her powerful Oscar nominated role in Atonement (shot by Avengers director of photography Seamus McGarvey) and The Lovely Bones. Not to mention her highly stylized adrenaline fueled action flick Hanna. That latter role almost helped her land the female lead as Elf warrior Tauriel in The Hobbit trilogy. Her name being out there does give large expectations that Ronan herself could walk away with the new role. Factoring in her body of work and past experience with stunt/action sequences. Similar to how past stunt training helped Zoe Saldana, Chris Pratt and Dave Bautista land their roles in Guardians of The Galaxy. It's also possible that both Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver actors could show up in future X-Men films such as X-Men Days of Future Past. Since the rights to the characters are shared between Marvel and Fox. Saorise worked with James McAvoy (who plays the young Charles Xavier) in Atonement, so that connection might come into play as well.

Scarlet Witch And Quicksilver Joining The Lineup For AVENGERS 2?

EW has a source that is confirming that characters Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver are expected to be in Avengers 2. Witch had been linked for Iron Man 2 but was ultimately cut. A similar story concerning Wasp was revealed in the early script phases for the first film so it's not entirely impossible that they might also be removed for pacing or time. That said, Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver are co-shared characters that both Disney/Marvel and Fox can use in films. Since the twins are just as known for being involved with the Avengers as they are with the X-Men franchise.

SPOILER SPECULATION: What AVENGERS 2 Might Look Like

Joss Whedon signed on to both write and direct the sequel to Avengers. He's also been tasked to consult on the rest of the Phase Two films. While the plot of the film is currently unknown Whedon has quietly handed in a draft to Marvel. A few things taken from previous films such as rumors, Easter Eggs, hints and assumptions have fuelled this gathering of possibilities for Avengers 2. Not to mention Joss stating the film would be on smaller more personal scale than the last installment. A lot of this write-up is speculation but could turn out to be true, so be warned these might be spoilers.

AVENGERS TOWER: There were a couple of hints in Avengers that Tony was looking to turn Star Tower into the new headquarters for The Avengers. It would somewhat confirm that the main characters would be returning for the sequel. S.H.I.E.L.D. at odds with the World Counsel have likely been given the go-ahead by Nick Fury for the Avengers to be on their own. This image confirming that Tony plans on housing the rest of the team and that they will be returning for the sequel.

S.W.O.R.D.: An off-shoot of S.H.I.E.L.D. and created for the comics by Joss Whedon, it's only a matter of time before he uses them. Erik Selvig names the organization in a deleted scene from Thor which means they exist in the MCU. The group handles alien matters and is headed up by Abigail Brand. Jessica Drew better known as the original Spider-Woman is also an agent of S.W.O.R.D. I could see them involved if either aliens or Atlantians are the villains.

ALIEN TECH: The aftermath of New York saw S.H.I.E.L.D. end up with a massive cache of Chitauri weapons and technology. Rogers revealed S.H.I.E.L.D.'s plans to resurrect Hydra's weapons program given the name "Phase Two".  Likely, the weapons will be involved/evolve throughout the next group of Marvel films. Could these weapons have been put together to fight against Asgard, meta-humans and aliens? Nick Fury gives the impression that's the case. If they're able to reverse engineer the Chitauri technology they could make some powerful weapons to arm with their agents/soldiers. It was shown in Item 47 that the weapons don't need the cosmic cube to be powered, unlike the Hydra guns.

The Chitauri gliders will likely make their way into the S.H.I.E.L.D. vehicle lineup as multiple heroes have used similar machines. At least they would be able to explain that it's alien technology that ables them to fly. My assumption is that they could first show up in Winter Soldier.

CIVIL WAR: Marvel's Kevin Feige has touched upon the use of the Civil War storyline. Saying that they'd try to save it for at least the third film. However, they've been hinting to it throughout the first installment. Starting with the tension scene in the forest where Thor battles Iron Man and Captain America. Later, we'll see the Avengers at each other's throat eventually coming together and becoming friends. This will be tested in their second outing as these massive characters will assuming have more conflict with each other. Not to mention S.H.I.E.L.D. loosing it's luster as a squeaky-clean organization turning themselves into bullies forcing the heroes to join them or be arrested. Seeing them as more of threat on their own rather than in the control of S.H.I.E.L.D.

We saw what happens when alien technology is left in the hands of S.H.I.E.L.D. as Coulson showed off the awesome power of the Destroyer gun. The weapon adapted from Asgardian material was able to give Loki a bit of punch. Which means it could do some damage to Thor as well. Not to mention Hulk's cage which is used on Loki, giving early hints to Civil War.

Another hint to Civil War is a little more covert with a reference to Project 42. As one of the files Coulson gives Stark has "42" on it. Project 42 is an extra-dimensional prison (developed by Stark) for captured bad guys (and rebellious heroes) made necessary because the old housing facility, Project Pegasus, had been destroyed. Project Pegasus was the name given to the facility in the opening scenes which was destroyed.

The World Council was able to go over Fury's head and greenlight a nuclear missile strike on Manhattan. In a deleted scene for the introduction which has Maria Hill talking to the Council after the events of New York seemingly throws Nick under the bus. A key moment that will likely be shown in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. However, this aspect could leak into Avengers 2 with S.H.I.E.L.D. and Hill looking to force the Avengers to become official members/agents. Hill and Stark being the main antagonists of the Civil War storyline.

H.A.M.M.E.R.: Led by the villainous Norman Osborn and puts together the Dark Avengers. We've seen Marvel use Norman's Iron Patriot suit for War Machine in Iron Man 3. So would it be possible to see H.A.M.M.E.R. as well? Well there has been talk of The Masters of Evil being the villains. However, the name of the group is a bit sketchy and cliche. It seems plausible that the group could end up being used just given a different title like H.A.M.M.E.R. This doesn't seem out of the ordinary considered we've seen Kevin Feige and Joss Whedon play around with origins and continuity before. I could see H.A.M.M.E.R. either shown as a rival of S.H.I.E.L.D. or it's polar oppisite. Baron Zemo has been rumored for Winter Soldier and is the founder of the Masters of Evil it wouldn't be a leap to see him headed up H.A.M.M.E.R. instead of HYDRA or even A.I.M. Another angle is since Masters of Evil will include former villains from previous films they could use Justin Hammer as the corperate face of the group. Having them a sort of privatized version of S.H.I.E.L.D.

If Sony does end up allowing Spider-Man to appear in an Avengers sequel. A Norman Osborn led H.A.M.M.E.R. taking over S.H.I.E.L.D. linked to a bigger Civil War plot could give a reason for Spidey to get himself involved with The Avengers. Instead of a cameo or a poorly shoehorned plot device to bring him into the fold. The Spider-Man saga was going to represented in The Avengers originally with the Oscorp building among the New York City skyline. That didn't happen but has proven bigger things could be possible. Even more so when Peter's parents had been portrayed as S.H.I.E.L.D. agents in a What-If? comic book. Perhaps, if Sony shared Spidey and Osborn they could be allowed to share S.H.I.E.L.D. which could end up bridging him into the MCU.



VILLAINS

NAMOR: There was a brief easter egg in Avengers during the opening scene. It could point to Namor's company Oracle which among other things tries to reduce the amount of pollution in the ocean. We've previously seen a Namor hint in Iron Man 2 when Fury's meta-human map showed Atlantis. Namor is Marvel's first mutant but exempted from Fox's X-Men deal. He had been rumored to be included for Captain America: The First Avenger and Iron Man 3. The former we know to be untrue but it remains to be unseen if he'll show up in Iron Man 3.

The Sub-Mariner has taken the role of hero and villain which could be an interesting take on a villain that we haven't seen in other films. While Loki was the first villain the Avengers went up against in both the film and comic book. Namor was a villain in issue three which could mean he's a very strong candidate. If this happens Namor could either help the Avengers or declare war with the army of Atlantis behind him. Having the enemy come from within the planet could be something considered "smaller scale" than having a fleet of aliens headed by Thanos invading Earth (again). Giving the team a bit of a break from a cosmic threat.

MASTERS OF EVIL: Joss Whedon has mentioned a more personal threat and a group of supervillains hitting the heroes were they live sounds about right. The Avengers being known on a worldwide scale could give them a rather large target on their backs. Even more so if it's known that Tony Stark is behind them. A rumor has pointed to the Masters of Evil possibly becoming the baddies of the sequel. While there has been talk of Thanos the smaller scale has been talked-up by Whedon a few times. The group included Baron Zemo (rumored for Cap 2), Radioactive Man (confirmed for Iron Man 3), Crossbones (confirmed for Cap 2), Amora The Enchantress/Skurge The Executioner (rumored for Thor 2) and former Avenger Wonder Man. Having the Avengers go up against a collection of former villains and friends could be something fresh instead of just one villain to worry about.

WONDER MAN: Simon Williams' company Williams Innovations is put under because of it's competitor Stark Industries. Simon tries to embezzle money from the failing company but ultimately is sent to prison for his crime. He blames Stark for his misfortune and is given a chance for revenge by Baron Zermo and the Masters of Evil. Transformed into the superhuman Wonder Man by Zemo is sent to infiltrate the Avengers. While posing as an Avenger Simon will eventually betray his companions so that the Masters of Evil can destroy the Avengers. If Whedon wants a personal Avengers story there's nothing better than Wonder Man's betrayal, redemption, subsequent death and then resurrection.

Eric Williams, the brother of Simon blames the death of his brother Wonder Man on The Avengers and plans to take revenge on the heroes. With the help of Ultron, another member of the Masters of Evil and creation of Hank Pym (Ant-Man) gives The Grim Reaper more powers. Ultron uses Simon's brain patterns for Vision who becomes another villainous pawn against The Avengers. Eventually, Vision and a resurrected Wonder Man become members of The West Coast Avengers. There is also a bit of a love triangle between himself, Scarlet Witch and Vision.

THANOS: When Thanos finally showed up at the end of Avengers revealing himself as Loki's puppet master. It gave a lot of fans the impression he was going to be the big baddie of the sequel. However, Marvel hasn't really made button scenes for sequels before only for upcoming films. The newest film in Phase Two being The Guardians of The Galaxy. We do know that Odin's vault in Thor held the infinity gauntlet and it's rumored that something involved with the gauntlet could be the item of interest (infinity gems or the gauntlet itself) in Guardians. Thanos will likely be showing up in Guardians possibly as the main antagonist of the movie. How that translates into Avengers 2 remains to be seen since his presence could have some massively grim consequences.

The infinity gauntlet saga has it's own issues considering how powerful Thanos becomes and the death-toll that comes with it. Marvel wouldn't in likely-hood want to kill off major characters in that fashion and this early. Perhaps, if Thanos does become a villain in the Avengers films it will be further in the future giving enough time for characters to finish their trilogies and solo films.

Another possibility is that Thanos could be pulling the strings of Masters of Evil providing them with technology and weapons to go up against the Avengers. Maybe even the machine that turns Simon Williams into Wonder Man since it sounds like cosmic-technology would be involved there.

NEW AVENGERS

 ComingSoon was able to get a quote from Whedon about a favorite aspect of the Avengers comics. That being the way the comics shook-up the Avengers lineup with new heroes joining the team in every issue. Hawkeye and Black Widow weren't original Avengers members but ultimately joined the team in the first installment. Hawkeye being the leader of the West Coast Avengers it's possible that other members of the team could end up showing up in sequels. Characters that haven't been mentioned or rumored such as Mockingbird, Wonder Man and Spider-Woman could be interesting additions to the MCU.

"I used to read 'The Avengers' and part of the ethos of the team was that it changed their lineup every month," says Whedon. "Their 150th issue was just a bunch of faces. 'Who will be in the team now?!' We had the first issue as a poster in the offices. Now that I'm working on the sequel I said, 'Let's put the second issue up there! Let's change it up a little bit!' The second issue is 'Introducing… Giant-Man! And this character! They were already changing it up after one issue. That's what they always do."

SCARLET WITCH AND VISION: Classic supporting Avengers like Scarlet Witch (Iron Man 2 supporting character) and Vision (life-decoy of Agent Coulson) have been mentioned previously and have been championed by fans. Witch had been confirmed by Favreau as an original supporting character in Iron Man 2 but was ultimately cut out of the film. Johansson was originally going to play Witch but was later placed in the Black Widow role. Scarlet Witch's scenes were likely turned into Kate Mara's U.S. Marshall brief cameo. It's possible a reason she was cut is that Marvel might be only able to use Witch in an Avengers film. Kevin Feige stated that Marvel co-owns Witch/Quicksilver and seemingly confirms she's only able to appear in their Avengers films.

"If they want to use them in an X-Men movie they could, if we want to use them in an Avengers movie we could." 

A couple of scenes in Avengers seemingly hint to Agent Coulson becoming the robotic Avenger Vision. Stark mentions a life-model-decoy which is Marvel-talk for android when Phill comes calling at Stark Tower. Coulson uses a retna scan to get ahold of the Destroyer gun and Fury calls him his "good eye". A major problem with this theory is that Clark is reprising the role in Joss Whedon's S.H.I.E.L.D. series on ABC.

WASP: The Wasp/ Janet van Dyne was present in Joss Whedon's original Avenger drafts. Her inclusion was going to be based on if Scarlett Johansson was able to be in the film or not. She was ultamtely cut out of the film but is rumored to be appearing in Iron Man 3. Perhaps, being introduced in a similar way to Widow in Iron Man 2. We know for sure she'll be invovled with Edgar Wright's Ant-Man which will shoot around the same time as Avengers 2. It's possible she could show up in the sequel.

Someone believes that these two people dressed in red during Loki's speech in Germany could be a cameo from Hank Pym and Janet. Seems possible since the outfits are out of place compared to others in the crowd.

MS MARVEL: Carol Danvers/Ms. Marvel has been rumored since the development/production of the first film. There is talk the studio is trying to put together a solo film for her along with actresses being linked for the role. Emily Blunt (Looper, All You Need Is Kill) who was originally cast in Iron Man 2 is linked along with Disney's Lone Ranger actress Ruth Wilson (Luther).

STAR-LORD AND THE GUARDIANS: Depending on the direction of Avengers 2 we could be seeing the inclusion of Star-Lord and the Guardians of The Galaxy. However, this seems like it's only going to happen if Thanos or Michael Korvac are the villains.

There are also a slew of characters that could make the jump into the Avengers sequel. Anthony Mackie (The Falcon) and Don Cheadle (War Machine) are prime candidates to join the ranks. However, it's been mentioned before by Kevin Feige some supporting characters will likely stay in their respected franchise. It's unknown if S.H.I.E.L.D. will even have the same presence in this new film as they did in Avengers. As it's possible they've been folded into Captain America's cinematic world. Their lack of involvement could lead to the Civil War storyline in Avengers 3, which Feige has pointed out.