The Marvel Cinematic Universe is gearing up for what could be its most ambitious crossover yet, and the studio is certainly making sure fans are paying attention. In a truly dramatic fashion, Marvel teased the production of Avengers: Doomsday by showcasing a long, seemingly endless line of director*s chairs, each bearing the name of an actor set to appear in the film.
And yes, the list is jaw-dropping. Among those confirmed are Thor veteran Chris Hemsworth, Loki mastermind Tom Hiddleston, and the return of Robert Downey Jr. after his emotional exit in Avengers: Endgame. But the surprises do not end there.
The star-studded roster includes Mission: Impossible breakout Vanessa Kirby, The Last of Us sensation Pedro Pascal, Black Panther favourite Letitia Wright, and Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn. Marvel also seems to be diving deep into the X-Men universe, bringing back Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, and even Channing Tatum, whose ill-fated Gambit project never saw the light of day.
However, fans are already buzzing about who has not been announced. There is no sign of Ryan Reynolds or Hugh Jackman, despite their much-hyped Deadpool & Wolverine return. The absence of Benedict Cumberbatch*s Doctor Strange is also raising eyebrows, especially given his multiversal expertise. And where are Captain Marvel, Spider-Man, or any of the Young Avengers? With only Chris Hemsworth and Robert Downey Jr. from the original six Avengers, the team*s new line-up remains a mystery.
The reveal ended with an appearance from Downey himself, hinting that this list might not even be final. In a cheeky Instagram exchange, he commented that the line-up was already ※a deep bench of talent# but an extra long one,§ to which Marvel cryptically replied, ※there is always room for more.§
So, are there still more surprises up Marvel*s sleeve? Given the Secret Wars speculation and the fact that Marvel has a history of saving the best for last, fans are now left to wonder just how big Avengers: Doomsday will be. One thing is certain 每 this is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious projects Marvel has ever attempted, and the countdown has officially begun.