Marvel Studios is pushing forward, even after facing some setbacks with recent films like Thunderbolts and Captain America: Brave New World. Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, shared that they have a grand seven-year plan that extends to 2032, hinting at exciting developments ahead.
Feige is feeling optimistic, especially with the upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps. This film marks a major return for the beloved superhero team, which has seen mixed results in past adaptations. The original 2005 and 2007 films had decent success, but the 2015 reboot was a disaster. This time, expectations are high, as The Fantastic Four aims for a domestic opening box office of $100-$110 million.
Feige believes it’s the right moment to revive these characters because they are integral to Marvel’s history. “They deserve to be A-listers,” he said. Throughout Marvel’s previous crossover events, like Infinity War and Endgame, the Fantastic Four were significant players in the comics but couldn’t be included until now.
Marvel is also shifting its approach. Instead of connecting films to every other project, The Fantastic Four will stand alone, offering a “no homework required” movie experience. This aims to draw both devoted fans and casual viewers, addressing concerns over past films that relied too heavily on interconnected plots.
In terms of major villains, the studio is refocusing on Dr. Doom, a classic antagonist. Originally, Kang the Conqueror was set to be the main foe, but after actor Jonathan Majors’ legal troubles, the plans have changed. Feige acknowledged that Dr. Doom’s long history in Marvel comics made him the go-to villain for future narratives.
Moreover, the Blade project, despite its recent delays, is still in development. Director changes placed it on hold, but Feige emphasized the importance of quality for this film, even hinting at a preference for modern storytelling over period pieces.
Looking ahead, Marvel is adjusting its production strategy. Rather than overwhelming audiences with numerous projects, they plan to focus on one to three high-quality films annually. The misfire of The Marvels, which earned $206.1 million, demonstrated the risk of relying on viewers being caught up on interconnected content. This lesson has led to a clearer path forward.
Feige has also hinted at the potential for future big characters to return, though there might be recasting. He acknowledged that while favorites like Chris Hemsworth’s Thor remain, new actors will eventually portray iconic roles.
In summary, Marvel is poised for a fresh start. By grounding its stories and elevating beloved characters, they are setting the stage for exciting new adventures. The upcoming slate includes Spider-Man: Brand New Day on July 31, 2026, and Avengers: Doomsday on December 18, 2026, among other projects through 2028.
For detailed schedules and updates, check out the Comscore Marvel schedule.
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Blade,Kevin Feige,Marvel Studios,The Fantastic Four: First Steps
