The future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is taking shape, with directors Anthony and Joe Russo hinting at a significant departure from their previous work on Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. In an interview with Omelete, the Russo brothers described Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars as a "new beginning," laying the groundwork for Phase 7 and beyond. Joe Russo emphasized the shift from concluding a narrative arc to initiating a new one, stating, "We told an ending story [with Infinity War and Endgame], and now we're going to tell a beginning story."
The Russos also discussed their return to the MCU, explaining that a compelling creative idea spurred their involvement. Anthony Russo highlighted the fresh approach and importance of the story, emphasizing the exciting collaboration with both familiar and new team members. He acknowledged the pressure surrounding Doomsday, noting its ambitious goal of revitalizing theatrical viewership post-pandemic. Interestingly, the decision to bring back Robert Downey Jr. originated with Marvel producer Kevin Feige, after initial hesitation from the Russos due to a lack of a suitable storyline. It was only after Endgame writer Steve McFeely presented a compelling idea that they changed their minds.
The Next Generation of Avengers
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Joe Russo offered a cryptic hint about the films' direction, stating, "We love villains who think they’re the heroes of their own stories...When you have an actor like Robert Downey, you have to create a three-dimensional, well-shaped character for the audience. That’s where a lot of our focus is going.”
Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, with Secret Wars following in May 2027.
Last year, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige hinted at the introduction of X-Men characters in upcoming MCU films, promising that fans would see "some X-Men players that you might recognize." He further emphasized the X-Men's pivotal role in the MCU's future, particularly after Secret Wars, stating that the story "leads us into a new age of mutants and of the X-Men." Feige highlighted the X-Men's importance in the post-Secret Wars era, emphasizing their significant contribution to the MCU's future narrative. Storm's appearance in What If...? Season 3 marked a significant first step in integrating these characters into the wider MCU. The addition of three untitled movie projects to Marvel's 2028 release schedule further fuels speculation about an upcoming X-Men film.
