In the humming world of superhero cinema, two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali set a new course by choosing a pivotal role in the Marvel reboot of Blade. However, his journey towards becoming the iconic daywalker appears fraught with more challenges than anticipated, thanks to repeated setbacks and delays.
Key Takeaways:
– Mahershala Ali rejected the role of Commissioner Jim Gordon in DC’s The Batman for Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
– The Blade reboot has seen various delays, multiple script changes, and potential exits of actors.
– Despite these setbacks, Ali has expressed optimism about the project’s future.
Ali’s Controversial Career Move
Ali gained considerable attention when he reportedly refused the role of Commissioner Jim Gordon in DC’s The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson. This decision was influenced by the overlap of The Batman’s production schedule with the Blade reboot. With Ali’s involvement with the Marvel franchise announced as early as 2019, development delays and difficulties soon followed.
On-the-Rocks Reboot
Unfortunate news leaks heavily punctuate the timeline of Ali’s anticipated appearance as Blade. Revelations about issues ranging from actor drop-outs to drastic script alterations have unsettled fans. Despite its targeted release in 2025, the Blade reboot remains in limbo, chiefly due to the twin Hollywood strikes that delayed production.
This situation risks being perceived as a major career misstep by Ali. The Batman, the role he forfeited for Blade, hit the cinemas successfully and even has a sequel in development. The unfortunate circumstances enveloping Blade raise doubts about Ali’s decision to opt for this Marvel project.
Marvel’s Blade Woes
Fans have voiced considerable disappointment over the complications surrounding the Blade reboot. Before the SAG-AFTRA strike caused a delay in the movie’s production, reports disclosed additional problems. According to Variety, the Blade project has experienced a series of setbacks, comprising multiple writer and director changes and a halt in production six weeks prior to its commencement.
Controversially, Blade’s script was reshaped to adopt a female perspective, reducing the titular character to an almost secondary role. Reacting to the substantial script alterations and ensuing rumors of Ali’s possible exit, Marvel’s Kevin Feige brought on board writer Michael Green of Logan fame.
Ali’s Stance on the Blade Reboot
However, the rough waters the Blade has sailed through didn’t seem to discourage Ali. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly last December, the actor communicated his optimism about the project’s recent developments despite the multiple setbacks.
Though Ali’s Blade might be mired in a difficult pre-production phase, fans can still look forward to its release in 2025. Meanwhile, the DC movie The Batman that Ali turned down is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
In wrapping up, Ali’s take on the rocky journey of Blade’s reboot only reiterates that success in the world of superhero cinema is not always smooth sailing. Whether his decision to choose Blade over DC’s The Batman was a blunder or a visionary move remains to be seen with the future performance of the Blade reboot.
