It seems like Marvel’s long-awaited Blade movie might finally be getting back on track. According to reports, Jeymes Samuel, the creative force behind the critically acclaimed The Harder They Fall, has met with Marvel Studios, possibly stepping in as the new director for the vampire-centric superhero film. Samuel has left quite an impression on Marvel execs, and while nothing is set in stone yet, there’s growing anticipation that the partnership will become official soon.
The story behind Blade‘s development has been a rollercoaster of delays, rumors, and shifting directors. Originally, the project was slated to hit theaters on November 3, 2023, but after a series of creative changes, including the departure of previous directors Bassam Tariq and Yann Demange, the release was pushed back to September 2024, and then removed from the schedule altogether. However, insiders suggest that production could kick off in November 2024, with Blade remaining a top priority for Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige. Contrary to swirling rumors, the project was never in danger of cancellation.
This renewed buzz around Blade has rekindled excitement for what could be a crucial part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The movie will reportedly feature Oscar-winner Mahershala Ali as the iconic vampire hunter and Pearl star Mia Goth, who is rumored to portray Lilith, an ominous supernatural force.
Jeymes Samuel, who also goes by The Bullitts, is no stranger to high-profile projects. His directorial debut, The Harder They Fall, showcased his knack for stylish and action-packed filmmaking. The Western, released on Netflix in 2021, earned Samuel a BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut. He followed up that success with The Book of Clarence in 2023, starring LaKeith Stanfield, further establishing his versatility as a filmmaker.
The stakes for Blade are high. With Marvel Studios’ reputation for delivering blockbusters, there’s a lot riding on this film—especially given that the Blade franchise was instrumental in shaping the modern superhero genre. The original Blade trilogy, starring Wesley Snipes in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, was a cult hit that set the stage for the comic book movie boom. Now, with Mahershala Ali taking up the sword, fans are eager to see how the MCU will reintroduce the character.
This modern reboot promises a darker, more mature tone for the MCU, aligning with Marvel’s expansion into horror and supernatural elements. Blade‘s role is expected to tie into other properties like Doctor Strange and potentially even Moon Knight, expanding the narrative possibilities for the Marvel universe.
If Samuel does indeed come on board, he’ll have big shoes to fill, but his visionary approach could breathe new life into the project. With his past successes and ability to inject fresh perspectives into familiar genres, Samuel’s potential involvement could make Blade one of the most anticipated MCU films in years.
As we wait for official word from Marvel, fans can only hope that this latest development signals the return of the Daywalker to the big screen, in a way that honors both the legacy of the character and Marvel’s vision for the future. And with rumors swirling about the production starting by late 2024, it’s only a matter of time before we see the Blade saga return with a vengeance.
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