Highlights

  • Director Yann Demange hints at groundbreaking and R-rated elements in the upcoming Blade reboot, promising a grittier and more mature take on the character.
  • Demange praises Mahershala Ali as a profound actor, expressing excitement to unleash his intensity and ferocity in the film.
  • The decision to make Blade an R-rated film shows Marvel Studios' willingness to take risks and grant artistic freedom, satisfying fans' demand for intense and faithful adaptations.

While Marvel Studios' Blade reboot is in the early stages, director Yann Demange hinted at groundbreaking elements that will redefine the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Although the Blade reboot suffered numerous delays caused by the Writers Guild of America strike and the ongoing actors' strike, director Demange maintains an optimistic outlook for the project. The director recently gave an exciting update about the upcoming BladeMCU reboot and noted that the film will deliver what fans have longed for.

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Speaking in an interview with Deadline, Demange stated that the Blade reboot is set to provide Mahershala Ali with an opportunity to display his on-screen intensity. Additionally, he didn’t shy away from revealing that the film will be R-rated, promising a grittier and more mature take on the character. Demange said, “They gave me the R, which is so important.” The director expressed his admiration for Ali as well, lauding him as a profound actor. He further emphasized their readiness to infuse enjoyment and creativity into the film. Despite reports of Blade undergoing script issues, Demange's comments indicate a promising collaboration with Ali to bring the character to life and introduce him to the MCU.

For Blade, we are going to have fun because Mahershala is such a deep actor. I’m excited to show a kind of ruthlessness, a roughness he has, that allows him to walk the earth in a particular way. I love him for that. He’s got a dignity and integrity, but there is a ferocity there that he usually keeps under the surface. I want to unleash that and put it on the screen.

Blade in Marvel comics

Making Blade an R-rated film signifies Marvel Studios' increasing willingness to embrace risk and grant creative teams greater artistic freedom. Blade, known for its violent and gory elements in Marvel Comics, offers an opportunity for audiences to witness a more faithful adaptation. So, making the Blade MCU movie R-rated will satisfy the demand for intense and visceral action on the big screen.

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige originally announced Ali's casting as the Daywalker at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019. However, the Blade film has encountered numerous setbacks, including changes in both director and writer. Blade has seen multiple script revisions since its initial announcement.

On the other hand, Hollywood strikes have also compelled production on Blade to halt temporarily. Still, Demange expressed eagerness to resume work once the strike concludes, Showing a firm dedication toward the advancement of Blade. Despite these challenges, the anticipation for the film remains high as fans eagerly await its eventual release in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Blade is expected to be released in 2025.

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Source: Deadline