The Marvel Cinematic Universe is set to expand with a much-anticipated addition: the upcoming Blade film. Announced at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2019, this new installment promises a fresh interpretation of the iconic vampire hunter, seamlessly integrating him into the MCU. The revelation came from Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, who excitedly confirmed Mahershala Ali, a multiple Oscar winner, as the lead.
The original Blade trilogy, led by Wesley Snipes, not only brought Marvel’s vampire hero to prominence but also significantly boosted his popularity during a period when the concept of the MCU was merely speculative. Despite mixed critical receptions, the films garnered a substantial following and even inspired a brief TV series. With such a formidable legacy, the reboot carries high expectations and hopes for revitalizing the character in today’s cinematic landscape.
Although it’s still early in the development process, several vital details about this eagerly awaited new action movies entry have emerged. From casting nuances to snippets of the plot and updates on filming and release schedules, here is everything we currently know about the new Blade movie, hinting that it might indeed live up to the hype.
What Is the Release Date for the New Blade Movie?
Currently, the release date for “Blade” is set for November 7, 2025. Originally, during the 2022 San Diego Comic-Con panel, Marvel had slated the movie for a November 3, 2023 release, positioning it close to Halloween. However, following the departure of the film’s director, the premiere was postponed to September 6, 2024. Subsequent disruptions, including the dual WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes—which halted production due to ongoing script rewrites—necessitated another delay. In response to these setbacks, Marvel pushed the release further to 2025. Given the history of disruptions, additional delays would not be unexpected.
What Is the Title of the New Blade Movie?
There have been rumors circulating online suggesting that the new movie might be titled “Blade, the Vampire Slayer.” However, this title has not been officially announced, and given its resemblance to “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” it seems improbable that Marvel would choose this direction. As it stands, the film is likely to retain the simple title of “Blade,” mirroring the 1998 Wesley Snipes film.
Who Are the Creators Behind the MCU Blade Movie?
The development of the MCU’s Blade movie has experienced considerable fluctuations, particularly in its creative team. Initially, Marvel appointed Bassam Tariq, known for his acclaimed work on “Mogul Mowgli,” as the director. However, Tariq eventually exited the project, though he continues to hold a role as an executive producer. Following his departure, Yann Demange, recognized for his direction in ’71 and “Lovecraft Country,” was brought on to lead the project. Like his predecessor, Demange too parted ways with the project and, as of now, Marvel has not announced his replacement.
The screenplay for Blade has seen several writers contribute to its development, reflecting changes in narrative direction. Stacy Osei-Kuffour was the first to tackle the script but was later replaced by Beau DeMayo. The script has undergone numerous revisions, attracting the talents of Michael Starrbury, known for “When They See Us,” Nic Pizzolatto of “True Detective,” and Michael Green of “Logan.” Currently, the scriptwriting duties have been entrusted to Eric Pearson, a seasoned Marvel writer who penned “Black Widow” and is also involved with “The Fantastic Four.”
On the technical side, the film’s visual narrative is being shaped by cinematographer Damián GarcÃa, with Leigh Folsom Boyd handling the editing. The production team also includes Sarah Finn, who is responsible for casting, Stefania Cella overseeing production design, and Ruth E. Carter managing costume design. These crew members are integral to bringing the visionary and stylistic elements of Blade to life, ensuring the film’s alignment with the high standards of MCU productions.
Who Is in the Cast of the New Blade Movie?
Mahershala Ali was the inaugural actor confirmed for the cast of the new “Blade” movie. Subsequent casting developments have brought several notable actors aboard. Delroy Lindo, recognized for his roles in “Da 5 Bloods” alongside the late Chadwick Boseman, “The Cider House Rules,” “Gone in 60 Seconds,” and “The Harder They Fall” on Netflix, has also joined the cast in a role yet to be disclosed. However, Lindo’s participation in an unrelated vampire-themed project by Ryan Coogler at Warner Bros has sparked speculation about his continued involvement with the Marvel film.
Rumors have swirled around Antony Starr, famed for his portrayal in “The Boys,” potentially playing Dracula, though this casting has not been officially confirmed. Aaron Pierre, known from “The Underground Railroad,” was initially linked to the film but has since departed from the project. Another exciting addition to the cast is Mia Goth, celebrated for her performances in Ti West’s “X” and “Pearl,” as well as “MaXXXine.” While her specific role in “Blade” has not been revealed, her inclusion promises a dynamic presence in the MCU.
Here’s the cast for the new “Blade” movie:
Mahershala Ali
Delroy Lindo
Mia Goth
Antony Starr
Aaron Pierre
Which Characters Are Confirmed for the New Blade Movie?
Currently, the only character definitively confirmed for the new “Blade” movie is Mahershala Ali’s portrayal of Blade. Given the need to weave Blade into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s plausible that we could see appearances from other notable characters within this expansive universe.
Potential candidates include Benedict Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange and Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch, both of whom have been part of Marvel’s Midnight Sons super-team in the comics. This group unites some of Marvel’s most powerful supernatural heroes, raising the possibility of an MCU adaptation of the Midnight Sons. Given the uncertain fate of Scarlet Witch in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” her inclusion in “Blade” would add an intriguing layer to her storyline.
Another exciting prospect could be a cameo from Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds, who appeared in “Blade: Trinity” as Hannibal King. Such an appearance could provide comedic relief and a nod to previous “Blade” films, leveraging Reynolds’ characteristic humor.
However, these possibilities remain speculative, and official announcements regarding additional characters have yet to be made. “Blade” has a rich roster of characters in the comics, ranging from allies to archenemies like Deacon Frost and Dracula, making the potential for their cinematic debut quite thrilling.
When Does Filming for the New Blade Movie Begin?
The filming of the new “Blade” movie was initially set to commence in October 2022 in Atlanta, as revealed by Kevin Feige during the 2022 San Diego Comic-Con. However, due to various complications, the start was deferred to the summer of 2023, with plans to shoot at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. The onset of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes interrupted pre-production activities, and further behind-the-scenes changes have left the start date of production up in the air.
Mahershala Ali, who is cast in the lead role, is currently engaged with the new “Jurassic World” movie for Universal, making his availability for “Blade” uncertain. Originally, production was slated to begin in late 2021, but adjustments were made when Stacy Osei-Kuffour joined the project to refine the script. Subsequent to Bassam Tariq’s departure from the directorial role, the production was paused as Marvel Studios opted to take their time selecting a new director rather than rushing the process.
This project has faced numerous setbacks, and it appears there might be more delays ahead. However, we will continue to provide the latest updates on the filming schedule of the “Blade” reboot as they become available.
Can the Previous Blade Movies Be Streamed on Disney+?
Unfortunately, the original Blade trilogy is not available on Disney+. While Disney+ hosts a wide array of legacy Marvel films and series, these particular movies have not been included. However, you can rent or purchase “Blade” (1998), “Blade II” (2002), and “Blade: Trinity” (2004) through Amazon.
How Will the New Blade Movie Integrate into the MCU Timeline?
Following its announcement at SDCC 2019, Kevin Feige disclosed to reporter Steve Weintraub that the new Blade movie would initially be a part of MCU’s Phase 5, positioning it after the pivotal events of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” and alongside significant releases like “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and “Fantastic Four.” However, the release has since been shifted to Phase 6, slated to premiere after “Fantastic Four.”
While it’s clear Blade will join the contemporary MCU lineup, there remains a possibility that the movie could explore past events. This approach aligns with how Marvel integrated “Black Widow” and “Captain Marvel” into the MCU by setting them in earlier timelines. Despite the numerous changes and disruptions in production, specific details about the exact setting and timeline placement of Blade within the MCU have yet to be officially confirmed. Clarity on these aspects is expected to emerge as production progresses.
What is the Rating for the New Blade Movie: R or PG-13?
In February 2021, during the Marvel Studios panel at the Television Critics Association, Kevin Feige sparked considerable discussion regarding the rating of future Marvel films. He emphasized that apart from “Deadpool 3,” which will maintain its R-rated status due to its established brand and audience expectations, Marvel plans to continue with PG-13 ratings for its upcoming movies.
Feige stated that the PG-13 rating has not restricted Marvel’s storytelling to date, and they have been able to effectively tell the stories they wanted within this constraint. He noted that if a story genuinely required an R rating to be told as intended, the possibility could be explored, potentially leveraging other platforms like Star for distribution.
This stance raises questions about the rating for the upcoming “Blade” movie. Historically, the original Blade trilogy starring Wesley Snipes was R-rated, catering to adult audiences with a higher tolerance for blood and violence. Fans of the original films might be concerned that a PG-13 rating could dilute the gritty essence of Blade.
However, Feige’s comments do not rule out an R rating for “Blade,” although the likelihood seems to lean towards PG-13. If “Blade” were to adopt a PG-13 rating, it would likely focus less on gore and more on storyline and character development to align with the broader audience of the MCU. As of now, the official rating for the new “Blade” film has not been confirmed, and fans will need to stay tuned for further announcements.
What Is the Plot of the New Blade Movie?
Details surrounding the plot of the new Blade movie remain largely undisclosed, leaving much to speculation as the film’s production approaches. A more comprehensive storyline or synopsis is expected to emerge closer to the commencement of filming. Historically, Blade’s origin story, as depicted in the comics, provides a potential foundation for the film’s narrative.
In the comics, Blade, originally named Eric Brooks, was born under tragic circumstances when a vampire attacked his mother during her pregnancy. She died giving birth to Eric, who inherited the unique traits of a “Daywalker,” a half-human, half-vampire with the ability to withstand sunlight. As he matured, Eric adopted the moniker “Blade” and dedicated his life to hunting vampires, utilizing his extraordinary abilities.
Given the significant time lapse—over two decades—since the original Blade film, the upcoming reboot might opt to reintroduce this origin story to acquaint new audiences with the character’s background. However, it is equally plausible that the MCU will bypass the origin tale, diving directly into the narrative to maintain pace and engagement, similar to how Tom Holland’s Spider-Man was integrated into the MCU without revisiting his well-known backstory.
There is also the potential for Blade to be introduced in another MCU film prior to his standalone feature, providing a gateway to explore his character in greater depth within his own narrative context. This strategy has proven effective in the past with other characters in the MCU.
Addressing the adherence to comic book canon, the former director Bassam Tariq highlighted the flexibility of Blade’s story in the comics, noting variations in the character’s name and background across different series. He emphasized a character-first approach for the film, suggesting that the reboot might not strictly conform to any single comic storyline but instead focus on crafting a compelling, character-driven narrative.
In an interview with Gizmodo, Tariq remarked, “What’s so great is it’s not as boxed in as I think people imagine it to be, which I thought it was. But it’s quite exciting, and I think the reality is there is no Blade canon. In some comics, his name is Fred H. Blade, you know, instead of Eric Brooks. Unfortunately, the runs never lasted that long and there have been some interesting and exciting waves. But I can say [the new movie is] character first.”
This approach promises a fresh and innovative take on the beloved Daywalker, potentially offering both new and long-time fans a unique cinematic experience.
