That Time Kraven The Hunter Could Have Joined The MCU Years Ago, And Why It Didn’t Happen

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As a gamer who’s spent countless hours navigating the virtual worlds of Marvel and Sony, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgic frustration as I reflect on Kraven the Hunter’s long-awaited cinematic debut. If you’ve been following the comics for as long as I have, you’d know that this character has had quite the journey in both the pages and potential silver screens.

Following some setbacks, Sony’s movie “Kraven the Hunter,” the newest addition to their series of Spider-Man-related spinoffs, is now playing in cinemas. Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, this film represents the debut of the esteemed comic book villain in live-action, a role that many have eagerly anticipated for years. Remarkably, a portrayal of the hunter might have graced our screens earlier. This is because he could have been part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe years ago. Let’s delve into why this didn’t transpire.

How Could Kraven The Hunter Have Joined The MCU Years Ago?

Longtime readers of Spider-Man comics would recognize the adversarial relationship between Peter Parker (Spidey) and Sergei Kravinoff. One might assume that he could have been a potential candidate for the 2017 movie “Spider-Man: Homecoming”. However, it was actually the director of another Marvel Cinematic Universe film who showed interest in incorporating the character. Ryan Coogler, the filmmaker behind the critically acclaimed “Black Panther”, disclosed that he wanted to include Kraven in his movie.

I’ve had a soft spot for Kraven the Hunter in most versions. At one point, there was an idea floated – ‘Could we bring in Kraven?’ – but it was decided that he wasn’t part of our project. It was disappointing, as I felt he could have fit well. However, I’m not sure if he would have been suitable for the film we eventually made, given the early stages of development at the time.

According to the director’s 2018 interview with Yahoo! UK, his inspiration for “Fruitvale Station” came from Christopher Priest’s run of “Black Panther” comics. These stories featured Kraven battling T’Challa, and it would have been exciting to see that fight come to life in a live-action film. The director didn’t delve too deeply into why he couldn’t include the character, but it seems Marvel Studios may have declined the request. (It’s also possible that legal issues with Sony played a role in their decision.)

Reflecting on what might have been is intriguing, but I’d argue that Ryan Coogler’s first Marvel Cinematic Universe film turned out splendidly as planned. Coogler skillfully incorporated two powerful antagonists, namely Erik Killmonger and Ulysses Klaue (now beloved by fans). Interestingly enough, Kraven was also considered for a role in a universe production on other occasions.

What Other Move Nearly Marked Kraven’s MCU Introduction?

The blockbuster film “Spider-Man: No Way Home” garnered acclaim for its intricate multiversal plot and the return of original Spider-Man characters from previous movies. Interestingly, this elaborate storyline wasn’t a given initially. In 2021, Tom Holland revealed to Collider that director Jon Watts had another concept in mind if the multiverse narrative didn’t pan out: an alternative plot idea was proposed as a backup plan.

It seems a Kraven film was planned as the third installment, but due to various complications and delays, it didn’t work out. Later, Jon proposed an intriguing concept for a Kraven movie to me, which I found quite engaging. I’d rather not discuss it now, just in case the movie eventually gets made, but it was certainly entertaining.

More on Kraven the Hunter

Kraven The Hunter Review: Sony’s Spider-Man Universe Trilogy Of 2024 Duds Is Complete

I really appreciated the way the movie “No Way Home” told its story, and I think it would have been fantastic if Tom Holland’s Spider-Man had battled a character like Kraven. From a storytelling point of view, it could have been logical for Kravinoff to pursue Peter Parker after his identity was revealed publicly. This tale might have even mirrored the classic comic book storyline “Kraven’s Last Hunt.

It’s uncertain how Kraven would have been portrayed in the mentioned Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films, as fans can only speculate. However, it’s clear that critics haven’t been very impressed with “Kraven the Hunter” so far, pointing out flaws in the script, visual effects, and other aspects. With the 2024 movie lineup’s reception in question, it leaves one wondering if we’ll get to see this character on screen again. Personally, I hope Kraven makes an appearance in the MCU someday because I’d love to witness his formidable presence.

Currently, “Kraven the Hunter” is showing in cinemas across the country. Don’t forget to keep yourself updated on future “Spider-Man” and other upcoming superhero movie releases too!

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2024-12-15 02:08