The future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is taking shape, with directors Anthony and Joe Russo hinting at a significant departure for Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars from their previous work on Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. In an interview with Omelete, the Russo brothers described the upcoming Avengers films as a "new beginning," laying the groundwork for Phase 7 and beyond. Joe Russo emphasized the shift from concluding a narrative arc to initiating a new one, stating, "We told an ending story [with Infinity War and Endgame], and now we're going to tell a beginning story."
The Russos also discussed their return to the MCU, explaining that a compelling creative idea spurred their involvement. Anthony Russo highlighted the fresh approach and importance of the story, emphasizing the collaborative spirit with both familiar and new team members. He acknowledged the pressure surrounding Doomsday, given the high expectations for its theatrical release in a post-pandemic world. Interestingly, the decision to bring back Robert Downey Jr. originated with Marvel producer Kevin Feige, following an initial reluctance from the Russo brothers due to a lack of a suitable storyline. The idea eventually materialized thanks to Endgame writer Steve McFeely.
The Next Generation of Avengers
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Joe Russo offered a glimpse into their creative focus, stating, "The only thing I’ll say about the movie is this: we love villains who think they’re the heroes of their own stories. That’s when they become three-dimensional and they become more interesting." This approach underscores their commitment to crafting compelling and complex characters, particularly given the involvement of Robert Downey Jr.
Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, with Secret Wars following in May 2027.
Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige has previously teased the introduction of X-Men characters in upcoming MCU films, promising familiar faces in the "next few" movies. He further emphasized the X-Men's crucial role in the MCU's future, particularly after Secret Wars, describing it as leading to a "new age of mutants and of the X-Men." Feige highlighted the long-term planning for the MCU's narrative, contrasting it with the approach to Avengers: Endgame. He confirmed the X-Men's significant presence in the post-Secret Wars storyline.
Storm's appearance in What If...? Season 3 marked the character's first foray into the wider MCU. The addition of three untitled movie projects to Marvel's 2028 release schedule (February 18, May 5, and November 10) further fuels speculation about an X-Men film.