As a longtime Marvel enthusiast who’s witnessed the cosmic dance between heroes and villains since the early days of comic books, I can’t help but be intrigued by these latest developments. The shift from Kang to Doctor Doom opens up a whole new multiversal mystery that could potentially tie into the upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps. If the Ten Rings are indeed extradimensional artifacts signaling Doom, and he turns out to be their creator, it’ll add another layer of complexity to one of Marvel’s most enigmatic characters.
The ongoing storyline of the Marvel Universe on Screen is currently unfolding in its Multiverse Tale, and movies scheduled for release in 2024 such as Echo, Deadpool & Logan (Wolverine), and the forthcoming Agatha All Along mark a pivotal point in this narrative, known as Phase 5. Despite some speculation that the Marvel Cinematic Universe is experiencing a dip in popularity, its decline has been overstated. For instance, the duo of Deadpool & Logan (Wolverine) has amassed more than $1 billion globally, and films like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Doctor Strange in the Realm of Madness, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Thor: Love and Thunder, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Spider-Man: No Way Home have all been box office successes. However, there is a common consensus among many that Marvel Studios has an issue with post-credit scenes.
Since the very first Iron Man movie concluded with a hint at Nick Fury and The Avengers, post-credit scenes have been an essential part of the MCU. These scenes have been instrumental in generating excitement for future projects. Initially, they tended to lead directly into subsequent films, like when Doctor Strange’s post-credit scene was a sneak peek from Thor: Ragnarok, which followed the next year. However, with numerous MCU productions in Phases 4 and 5 on the horizon, many of the teased potential narratives, sequels, and characters have yet to be developed.
Here are some recently wrapped up storylines, such as the hints for “The Marvels” from “Ms. Marvel” or the setup for “Hawkeye” in “Black Widow’s” post-credit scene, which was shown four months ago. However, there are numerous plotlines that remain unresolved and lack a clear resolution at this time. With these points in mind, let’s explore some of the most significant mid and post-credit scenes within the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Multiverse Saga and potential timelines for their resolution.
10 The Black Knight’s Sword
Eternals (2021)
To begin with, let me highlight Kit Harington’s character in the movie “Eternals,” where he portrays Dane Whitman. His role in this film is minor, but it’s significant as it paves the way for a larger part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, transforming into the iconic figure, The Black Knight. In the post-credit scene of “Eternals,” we see Whitman drawing an ancient, black-hued sword. However, this act is interrupted by an unidentified voice from off-screen, which was later revealed to be Mahersha Ali’s character, Blade, in a surprising twist.
Although fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Blade, there’s speculation about it. The fate of Black Knight in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is uncertain, especially given Kit Harrington’s comments about rejoining the MCU and Marvel Studios apparently abandoning plans for Eternals 2. However, it seems that we might see a resolution for Black Knight sooner than expected.
Can Be Resolved in Agatha All Along
It is thought that Harrington’s character may have originally been intended for the Blade film before it underwent changes, but now Marvel Studios seems poised to reintroduce the character in their upcoming production: Agatha All Along. In the comics, Dane Whitman is a descendant of Sir Percy, a knight from King Arthur’s era who possessed the Ebony Blade, the sword hinted at the end of Eternals. The Ebony Blade was fashioned from a meteor and enchanted by the sorcerer Merlin. This blade carries a blood curse that affects Dane Whitman’s lineage.
I’m excited to delve into the mysterious and enchanting realm of witchcraft as portrayed in Agatha All Along, a fresh perspective on the supernatural within the MCU. This captivating journey will subtly echo tales of old, such as The Wizard of Oz and Evil Dead. Characters like Agatha Harkness may unveil secrets about the Ebony Blade, offering a satisfying nod to the teaser in Eternals, while simultaneously setting up plot threads for future exploration by Marvel Studios when they’re ready.
9 Ms. Marvel Recruitment of The Young Avengers
The Marvels (2023)
Starting with Phase 4, it’s become apparent that Marvel Studios has been laying the groundwork for The Young Avengers. Characters such as Billy and Tommy from WandaVision, Eli Bradley in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Kate Bishop in Hawkeye, Riri Williams in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, America Chavez in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and even Cassie Lang from Phase 2’s Ant-Man, appear to be shaping up as potential members for a Young Avengers team. This was largely confirmed at the end of The Marvels when Ms. Marvel enlisted Kate Bishop to join her own squad. However, despite the Multiverse Saga having started three years ago, there’s been no news on an upcoming Young Avengers project as of yet.
The Young Avengers Will Likely Assemble in Their Own Project… After Vision
It appears that Marvel is preparing to launch a standalone project for the Young Avengers, either a film or a series on Disney+, in conjunction with Avengers: Doomsday. There are two undecided release dates in 2026 – February 13th and November 6th – that could potentially be for a Young Avengers movie. Moreover, more groundwork for the team might be laid in the upcoming series Agatha All Along, as Joe Locke seems to portray the character of Wiccan, and whispers suggest that the forthcoming Vision series may include Wiccan’s brother Tommy.
It’s possible that the Vision series could be connected to the Young Avengers, with Vision taking on a role as an elder guide. The Vision is depicted as being the concluding chapter in a trilogy of tales that also includes WandaVision and Agatha All Along. When combined with Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, these stories place significant focus on Young Avengers characters such as Billy/Wiccan, Tommy/Speed, and America Chavez.
8 The Council of Kangs
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
Marvel Studios heavily invested in actor Jonathan Majors and the character of Kang the Conqueror. His appearance was subtly hinted in the first season of Loki, paving the way for his part in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the second season of Loki, and ultimately as the main antagonist for the Multiverse Saga with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty. However, soon after Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was released in theaters, Majors was arrested for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend. In December 2023, he was found guilty of these charges, leading Marvel Studios to promptly sever ties with the actor, removing him from the role of Kang.
It appears that Marvel Studios has shifted its focus away from Kang the Conqueror, with Robert Downey Jr. set to portray Doctor Doom in “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars”. However, a hint about the Council of Kang and the expansive Kang Dynasty was shown in the mid-credit scene of “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania”. So, it remains to be seen what will happen with this tease now.
Doctor Doom Will Likely Destroy Them in Avengers: Doomsday
It appears that Marvel Studios may have devised a strategy to exclude Kang from the MCU, as hinted by the end scene of Loki Season 2, where the TVA was shown overseeing multiple Kang variants across different universes. However, there’s also speculation that Marvel Studios could introduce Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday, with him defeating the council of Kangs to solidify his position as a formidable threat. This could potentially be depicted on-screen or subtly alluded to, similar to Thanos’ destruction of the Nova Corp in Avengers: Infinity War.
7 Monica Rambeau Stranded in the X-Men Universe
The Marvels (2023)
In the extra scene following The Marvels’ movie, it was revealed that Monica Rambeau ended up in a different dimension. She wasn’t stranded in any ordinary universe; instead, she was discovered by none other than the X-Men, with Beast (previously played by Kelsey Grammer in X-Men: The Last Stand) being the one to find her. Interestingly, there was also a version of her mother, Maria Rambeau, who now goes by the code name Binary. The lab where Monica awakens shares some resemblance with the one that appeared in the X-Men films produced by 20th Century Fox.
It’s uncertain whether this world is the same Earth-10005 that Deadpool and Wolverine refer to, or a parallel X-Men Universe with similar traits. The storyline involving this confusion wasn’t resolved in Deadpool & Wolverine as initially anticipated, but instead focused on their individual narratives. Potentially, more information could be revealed in Fantastic Four: First Steps.
The Fantastic Four Might Tease This, Setting Up Avengers: Doomsday
The upcoming movie titled “Fantastic Four: First Steps” will be set in an alternate universe, distinct from the main Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline. The storyline revolves around Galactus as the primary antagonist, and there are hints of Doctor Doom appearing in “Avengers: Doomsday”. It’s rumored that their home planet might be destroyed, causing the Fantastic Four to become lost among various universes. There is a possibility that the film may conclude with the team ending up in the X-Men Universe, where Monica Rambeau currently resides. This encounter could reveal a greater danger to the Multiverse, paving the way for “Avengers: Doomsday”.
6 The Ten Rings Will Return
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
In the movie Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, there were two extra scenes at the end, but let me first discuss the one that comes before the last. The last scene, however, might be the most thrilling. The film concludes with Shang-Chi’s sister, Xialing, taking over the leadership of the Ten Rings organization her father constructed, even though she previously told Shang-Chi that she would dismantle it. In defiance of her promise, Xialing is now in charge of a new Ten Rings, which consists of both male and female operatives. The film’s final tagline is “The Ten Rings Will Return,” signifying the powerful weapons known as the Ten Rings that Shang-Chi possesses but also referring to the organization run by Xialing, implying that both of their father’s children are preserving part of his legacy.
As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but ponder over the enigmatic absence of The Ten Rings in recent Marvel productions such as Moon Knight, Secret Invasion, and Echo. Despite their potential menace fitting perfectly within these narratives, they’ve seemingly vanished without a trace. However, there’s a tantalizing possibility that they might make a cameo in Captain America: Brave New World or Thunderbolts. But here’s the intriguing twist – the most plausible scenario for The Ten Rings lies within the realm of a potential Shang-Chi sequel.
This Is Likely Being Saved for a Shang-Chi Sequel
It appears that the logical sequel for the Ten Rings organization could be “Shang-Chi 2”, given it’s currently in production at Marvel Studios. The movie’s delay might be due to the original director of “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”, Destin Daniel Cretton, initially slated to direct “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty”. However, this project was later reworked into “Avengers: Doomsday”, causing a significant gap between Shang-Chi’s MCU introduction and any subsequent references to him.
It’s expected that The Ten Rings group will play a significant role in Shang-Chi 2, with the relationship between the brother and sister being the central focus of the movie, much like the father-children dynamic was in the first film. Director Destin Daniel Cretton, who is also responsible for the upcoming MCU series ‘Wonder Man’, may include a hint of The Ten Rings before Shang-Chi 2, based on which project gets released first.
5 Clea Recruits Doctor Strange
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
In the post-credits scene of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” Charlize Theron is revealed as Clea. She informs Doctor Strange that due to his actions, an intrusion occurred and he must assist her in resolving it. A portal to the Dark Dimension was then opened, with Doctor Strange agreeing to accompany her. Since then, no details have been shared regarding Doctor Strange or the outcome of this intrusion.
Might Be a Subplot in Avengers: Doomsday Setting Up Doctor Strange 3
Although some might label “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” a financial letdown, it was anything but. The film raked in close to $1 billion at global box offices, all without a Chinese screening. Marvel Studios views Doctor Strange as a key character for their upcoming Multiverse Storyline, and it’s highly probable that his narrative will carry on in “Doctor Strange 3”. We anticipate this sequel to be unveiled somewhere between “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars”.
In the film “Avengers: Doomsday“, Doctor Strange and Clea could potentially have a secondary plot, where they attempt to thwart Doctor Doom’s plans. Unfortunately, their efforts prove unsuccessful, paving the way for the events of the third movie.
4 Hercules’ Mission to Kill Thor
Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
Two months following the conclusion of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” hinting at a comic book character linked to the protagonist without providing explicit setup details, the film “Thor: Love and Thunder” followed suit. The movie closed with Zeus (Russell Crowe) commissioning his son Hercules (Brett Goldstein) to track down Thor and eliminate him, while simultaneously cautioning Earth’s inhabitants against revering superheroes and instead, respecting the gods.
Goldstein’s selection as Hercules appears to be a brilliant move, leveraging his growing fame from the TV show Ted Lasso. However, so far, Marvel has failed to utilize this opportunity. Although Thor 5 could potentially be a fit, it seems that Hercules might be more fitting for another Marvel venture instead.
Hercules Should Not Return in Thor 5 but Instead She-Hulk Season 2
As a die-hard Marvel fan, I’ve got to say that while there’s no official word yet on Season 2 of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, it’s hard not to see its potential. If Marvel Studios were to give the green light for another season, I’d love to see Hercules make an appearance instead of in Thor 5. Imagine this: Hercules lands on Earth, searching for Thor, but his mission gets sidetracked upon encountering Jennifer Walters. This twist would not only spice up the storyline for Hercules beyond a simple confrontation with Thor, but it also opens up a whole new world of possibilities for the She-Hulk series.
In comic books, there’s an intriguing romantic past between Hercules and She-Hulk. This dynamic could bring a touch of romance – something the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is sometimes criticized for lacking – to future stories. By juxtaposing the traditional hero, Hercules, with the contemporary character Jennifer Walters (She-Hulk), you create compelling contrasting personalities that could blossom into a romantic relationship. This pairing offers a fresh take on the well-worn but impactful enemies-to-lovers trope, which could serve as a new focal point for the MCU.
3 Sharon Carter Selling Government Weapons as the Power Broker
Falcon and Winter Soldier (2021)
In “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” it turned out that Sharon Carter, who had been a beloved ally to fans since her debut in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier, was actually the villain known as The Power Broker. The series concluded with the government granting her clemency for her actions during “Captain America: Civil War“.
Following her shift within the CIA, she arranges potential purchasers for classified information. It appears as though Sharon Carter/The Power Broker could take on a significant role in MCU narratives such as Hawkeye or Secret Invasion, or even be featured in the upcoming Captain America: Brave New World and Thunderbolts, which are follow-ups to The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. However, actress Emily VanCamp has not been confirmed to reprise her role in either of those films.
Power Broker Could Kick off Armor Wars
It seems likely that Sharon Carter’s previous actions, which involved attempting to sell classified government information, indicate that she will have a major part in the upcoming “Armor Wars” project, which was initially conceived as a Disney+ series but is now being developed into a movie.
In the storyline of Armor Wars, it’s likely that Tony Stark’s Iron Man technology has been misused by villains due to some mysterious source. Therefore, The Power Broker might be the reason behind Tony Stark’s tech falling into the hands of multiple criminals. To protect his friend’s legacy, Rhodey/War Machine must intervene in this situation. Unfortunately, as of now, Armor Wars has yet to announce a release date.
2 Shang-Chi’s Ten Rings Beacon
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
The opening extra scene in “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” sparked the most intrigue among fans, as it depicted Shang-Chi and Katy conversing with Wong, Captain Marvel, and Bruce Banner regarding the enigmatic Ten Rings. Viewers discover that these rings do not correspond to any alien tech known to Captain Marvel or mystical records kept by Wong.
Additionally, they found out that when Shang-Chi initially used the rings, they triggered a message, but it’s still uncertain as to whom or what this message was directed towards. Furthermore, both the origin of the rings and the reason why they didn’t emit a signal throughout Wenwu’s use remain undisclosed.
The Beacon Might Tie Into Fantastic Four: First Steps
Since Destin Daniel Cretton, director of “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” was previously attached to direct “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” it’s reasonable to assume that the Ten Rings could be connected to Kang and his multidimensional scheme. This theory is strengthened by observations that Kang’s rings in “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” resemble oversized versions of The Ten Rings, as some fans have noted.
With Doctor Doom taking over where Kang left off in the plan, it’s doubtful that this enigma will connect to Kang. Nevertheless, there’s a possibility that they both originate from different universes and might be linked to the impending “Fantastic Four: First Steps”. The rings could potentially hail from another dimension, serving as a clue pointing towards Doctor Doom, who might turn out to be their creator.
1 Eternals Will Return
Eternals (2021)
Without a doubt, one of the most intriguing plot twists in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) revolves around the destiny of the Eternals, given that Marvel Studios has announced no plans for Eternals 2. The first film concluded with Thena, Makkari, and Druig encountering the Eternal Eros and Pip the Troll while on a mission to rescue Sersi, Kingo, and Phastos. These characters were abducted by the Celestial named Arishem, who intends to scrutinize their minds to decide whether humanity is worthy of salvation or faces destruction.
Even though a sequel for “The Incredible Hulk” may not materialize, it doesn’t rule out Marvel exploring similar themes and characters again. For instance, Bruce Banner’s narrative has persisted throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and characters like Abomination, Thunderbolt Ross, The Leader, and Betty Ross have made comebacks. Therefore, it’s plausible that the Eternals could reappear, and Marvel possesses two significant cosmic properties to facilitate such continuation.
Eternals Could Be Folded Into Thor 5 or a New Guardians of the Galaxy Movie
A logical spot for the Eternals to reappear could undeniably be Thor 4 (since we’re speculating here since there’s no official Thor 5 yet). The reason being that Marvel utilized the Thor franchise as a stepping stone for introducing The Hulk in Thor: Ragnarok, and the same pattern might be repeated with the Eternals. Given that many aspects of the Eternals’ mythology were developed further in the Thor comics, it makes sense that these two properties could complement each other well on the big screen. Therefore, Thor 4 (or 5) seems like a perfect environment for the Eternals to thrive.
As a staunch advocate, I’d like to add that we can’t forget about the dynamic Guardians of the Galaxy! Although James Gunn’s introduction of this team in 2014 marked the conclusion with Vol. 3, the mid-credit scene hinted at the continuation of the concept. Now, Rocket is leading a fresh squad, including familiar faces such as Groot, Adam Warlock, and Phyla-Vel.
There’s currently no talk about a fourth “Guardians of the Galaxy” film, but it might be interesting if the Guardians encountered the Celestials, discovered the Eternals, and eventually had the Eternals become part of the Guardians. This could create an exciting mix-up for both franchises.
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2024-08-31 05:03