MCU Reboot: Forgotten Marvel Stars Return?!

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In 2008, when the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) commenced its journey, it aimed to unite a group of superheroes across different films. This ambition was successfully fulfilled in 2012 with the release of The Avengers. Now, this continuity presents a grand and promising chance to reintroduce some significant Marvel characters who once resided outside of Earth-616.

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I’ve always admired the intricate web of stories woven by the MCU. Yet, it was only with the Multiverse Saga that this cinematic universe started to weave threads from its earlier tales, integrating them into the grand tapestry it had so skillfully crafted. In the stunning saga unfolding on the silver screen, films like Spider-Man: No Way Home brought together Tom Holland, Andrew Garfield, and Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Men, while Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness saw the appearance of Patrick Stewart. Meanwhile, the action-packed duo of Deadpool & Wolverine successfully merged two distinct Marvel universes. And with the upcoming blockbusters like Doomsday and Secret Wars, I can’t wait to see several under-appreciated Marvel characters finally get their moment in the limelight, tying together more threads of this magnificent storyline.

10. The Original Howard The Duck

It might come as a shock, but it was Howard the Duck who graced the big screen first among Marvel characters in a major film release, back in 1986. Prior to this, there were Marvel TV movies and even a Captain America serial from 1944. However, it was Howard who brought Marvel films into the contemporary era. Ironically, despite being a pioneer in this realm, the movie is notorious for its bizarre, contentious, and illogical nature.

Regardless of its initial reception, Howard the Duck has played a significant role in Marvel and cinematic history, and it’s high time for a rejuvenation within the MCU. The character has had small appearances in films such as Avengers: Endgame, and was given more focus in a What If…? episode. However, it would be delightful to witness the original character make one final appearance before the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga.

9. Dolph Lungren’s Punisher

Dolph Lundgren gained fame as a powerful action star following his portrayal of the formidable Ivan Drago in Rocky IV. After that, he enjoyed a string of successful films in the 80s and 90s, one of which was his role as Frank Castle in The Punisher (1989). Nowadays, Jon Bernthal holds the celebrated role, but Lundgren was the initial actor to bring the character to life on screen.

The movie garnered both positive and negative feedback, and its remake in 2004 featuring Thomas Jane didn’t improve things significantly. Yet, Lundgren continues to be a beloved action star, even as he grows older, making it intriguing to imagine a more seasoned, battle-scarred version of Frank in the Battleworld.

8. Ben Affleck’s Daredevil

While many might argue, I must confess that I found Ben Affleck’s Daredevil (released in 2003) quite enjoyable. It was an exciting period as the Fox X-Men were gaining popularity and Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man was making Marvel a household name in cinemas. Despite being less impactful than those productions, Daredevil brought something unique to the table that set it apart.

In this film, I found myself immersed in Matt Murdock’s unique, otherworldly perception reminiscent of echolocation. The towering presence of Wilson Fisk, portrayed brilliantly by Michael Clark Duncan, added to the enjoyment. And let’s not forget Colin Farrell, currently gracing our screens as The Penguin in the Michael Reeves Batverse, who brought Bullseye to life.

Admittedly, the movie had its imperfections, and Ben Affleck might not have been everyone’s ideal choice for the lead role. However, considering it as a foundation for the tale of the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen, I believe it successfully set the stage.

7. Eric Bana’s Hulk

2008 marked the debut of the Green Goliath in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) via The Incredible Hulk, with Edward Norton portraying Bruce Banner, the character’s alter-ego. Interestingly, the tale of the Hulk had already graced movie screens a few years prior. In 2003, Ang Lee directed Hulk, featuring Eric Bana as Bruce Banner. This film delved into the origins of this tormented scientist whose life was irrevocably altered by a catastrophic lab accident.

The movie was powerfully intense, raw, and immersive, but it faced criticisms for its inconsistent computer-generated imagery. Nevertheless, Eric Bana delivered an exceptional performance as Banner, and the emotional struggle between him and his father elevated this Marvel tale to one of the most gripping and captivating before the MCU. It would be great if Bana were given another opportunity to explore that story again.

6. Ioan Gruffudd’s Mister Fantastic

Pedro Pascal currently holds the role of Reed Richards in the MCU, but back in 2005, Ioan Gruffudd delivered an exceptional performance as Reed Richards in “Fantastic Four.” This includes sharing the screen with Chris Evans, who was already part of the MCU as Johnny Storm. Gruffudd’s portrayal of Reed was mesmerizing, showcasing an intellect and curiosity that surpasses his own physical boundaries. When these qualities translate into his superpowers, it creates a truly captivating storyline.

Griffith has starred in two movies that delve into the persona of Reed Richards, making him one of the world’s most familiar actors with this character. Meanwhile, Pascal will have to develop his own interpretation, but it would be intriguing to contrast Griffith’s portrayal with that of Pascal in the Multiverse Saga, perhaps as a part of a council of Reeds ready to aid Mr. Fantastic in resolving his most challenging predicament yet.

5. Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider

Nicolas Cage is more than just a film star; he’s a national treasure with a diverse acting portfolio that spans various narratives and genres. Among his many roles, his portrayal of Johnny Blaze in the movie “Ghost Rider” stands out as exceptional. Granted, the sequel didn’t live up to expectations, and the storyline was complex and somewhat confusing, but Cage’s performance as Ghost Rider was dark, intense, and captivating.

In addition to his affection for superhero tales, which is evident through his nearly cast role as Superman in a Tim Burton adaptation, his involvement in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and his upcoming roles in a Prime Video series and Spider-Man Noir, Cage’s return as Johnny Blaze would be a remarkable homage to the character before the MCU selects another actor to portray Ghost Rider.

4. Anya Taylor-Joy’s Magik

Anya Taylor-Joy has garnered widespread acclaim in the acting world, with her career consistently expanding and thriving. Her breakthrough role came in 2015’s The Witch, followed by a Marvel movie, though it didn’t hit theaters for several years. Unfortunately, The New Mutants encountered numerous challenges during its release, including the COVID-19 pandemic and Fox being bought out by Disney. As a result, Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of Magik did not receive the recognition it deserved.

It would be fantastic to see Anya Taylor-Joy join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, especially if she takes on the role of Illyana Rasputin again. However, it’s crucial that Marvel Studios handle this character with care. If they manage it well, Taylor-Joy has the potential to truly embody this captivating and underappreciated Marvel character.

3. Jennifer Lawrence’s Mystique

I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the extraordinary talent that Jennifer Lawrence possesses firsthand. When she was chosen to portray Raven Darkholme, also known as Mystique, in X-Men: First Class, alongside James McAvoy, it was a stroke of genius. The on-screen chemistry between us and the innovative retelling of their story as siblings brought up for adoption was nothing short of remarkable. It’s heart-wrenching to see Raven, my character, choose to align with Magneto over her cherished friend and brother, Charles Xavier.

In the original movie, Lawrence truly made the role her own and stood out. Although she was present in the sequels, her emotional depth and unique interpretation of the character transformed it significantly. As for Rebecca Romijn reprising the role from the earlier trilogy, I believe a more impactful experience would be achieved if both actresses’ versions of the character were to share screen time.

2. Dakota Johnson’s Madame Web

To put it simply, Madame Web turned out to be a major letdown. There’s no sugarcoating it. The movie fell flat and left a sour impression on audiences, even its leading actress Dakota Johnson. Although Johnson didn’t mince words about her feelings towards the film during production, which might have affected its box office performance, it doesn’t take away from the potential she had to offer an engaging backstory for the MCU.

Since the Sony Spider-Man Universe no longer exists, Madame Web may not have a future in it. However, given that Johnson has a knack for comedic and lighthearted roles, why not consider him for the part in the MCU’s version? There’s a history of characters from the SSU being transferred over, and Johnson’s unique portrayal, along with his style, could bring something fresh to Avengers: Secret Wars.

1. Tom Hardy’s Venom

Tom Hardy showcases exceptional acting skills across various film genres, including his memorable performance as Bane in the Batman trilogy, and as both an action star and a dramatic actor. However, despite shining brightly even amidst the grimness of the SSU, many believe he wasn’t fully utilized within the MCU-related universe. Though he made a brief appearance, fans are hoping for his return in either “Avengers: Doomsday” or “Secret Wars”.

Hardy’s character exhibits a natural knack for heroism and has the ability to adapt and switch roles effectively. If the Eddie Brock portrayed in the MCU is an exact replica of the SSU’s, it could lead to an intriguing crossover. However, I believe a more powerful and self-assured Brock, ready to face off against villains and team up with Tom Holland’s Spider-Man, would be even more captivating. There were hints for quite some time that these two characters would share the limelight, and perhaps the MCU could fulfill this promise in either Avengers: Armageddon or Avengers: Secrets Revealed.

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2025-05-13 06:51