Marvel's Multiverse Shake-Up: Anthony Mackie Teases Avengers Doomsday Ending

Anthony Mackie Drops Bombshell About Avengers Doomsday

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is on the brink of its most significant transformation yet, according to recent revelations from Anthony Mackie, who portrays Sam Wilson, the new Captain America. In a candid interview with Collider, Mackie shared intriguing insights about the upcoming film "Avengers Doomsday," particularly regarding its ending. His comments have sent ripples through the Marvel fandom, aligning with previous statements from the Russo brothers, the directorial duo behind some of the MCU's most iconic films.

The Russo Brothers' Approach

The Russo brothers, known for their work on "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," "Captain America: Civil War," and the "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Endgame" duo, are at the helm of both "Avengers Doomsday" and "Secret Wars." These films are being shot back-to-back, with "Doomsday" already in production. The directors have chosen their filming locations strategically to minimize spoilers, though some information has inevitably leaked.

Mackie's Script Revelations

Unlike previous Marvel projects where actors received only partial scripts, Mackie confirmed he has read the entire "Avengers Doomsday" script. This level of access suggests a shift in Marvel's approach to information sharing with its cast.

In his Collider interview, Mackie expressed excitement about the story, stating:

"It's one of those stories that really pushes the boundaries and it... the cliffhanger at the end... the last moments of the film... It really builds up and sets us up for a way for the continuation of the Marvel saga which is really exciting."

This statement hints at a narrative structure similar to the "Infinity War" and "Endgame" duo, culminating in a major cliffhanger.

Speculations on the Doomsday Ending

Based on Mackie's comments and existing Marvel lore, several theories about the "Doomsday" ending have emerged:

1. Multiverse Destruction: The cliffhanger might involve the destruction of the entire multiverse, a scale far beyond Thanos' snap in "Infinity War."

2. Dr. Doom's Ascension: There's speculation that Dr. Doom could emerge as a god-like figure, ruling over Battleworld - the sole remnant of the destroyed multiverse.

3. Concept Art Hints: Leaked concept art has shown Dr. Doom as "God Emperor" on a throne, with characters like Sheriff Strange and Sue Storm by his side, suggesting a dramatic power shift in the MCU.

Parallels with Comic Book Storylines

The potential ending of "Avengers Doomsday" seems to draw inspiration from the 2015 "Secret Wars" comic series. In this storyline:

• Dr. Doom attempts to prevent the multiverse's destruction.
• When prevention proves impossible, Doom creates Battleworld from the remnants of various universes.
• He rules this new world as a god-like entity.

This comic book arc provides a blueprint for how the MCU might handle its multiverse crisis and set up future storylines.

A New Beginning for the MCU

Both Mackie and the Russo brothers have emphasized that these films represent not an end, but a new beginning for the Marvel saga. This aligns with the idea of a post-"Secret Wars" MCU where:

• Characters from different universes coexist on a single world.
• Previously separate franchises like the X-Men, Fantastic Four, and Avengers can interact freely.
• Marvel can address the long-standing question of where certain characters (like the X-Men) have been during previous MCU events.

The Battle World Solution

The concept of Battle World serves multiple narrative purposes:

1. Character Integration: It allows Marvel to bring together characters from various universes without complex explanations.

2. Fresh Start: It provides a clean slate for introducing new characters and storylines.

3. Retcon Opportunity: It offers a way to sidestep continuity issues related to newly acquired properties like the X-Men.

High Stakes and Character Fates

Mackie's interview suggests that "Avengers Doomsday" will have real, lasting consequences for MCU characters. He stated:

"You see these characters and you see how they're introduced and how they play in the universe moving forward and no one is safe. Everyone is expendable."

This implies:

• Potential permanent deaths of major characters.
• A departure from the "reversible" deaths seen in previous films.
• The introduction of new characters who will shape the future of the MCU.

Scale and Scope of Avengers Doomsday

The film is set to feature an unprecedented number of characters, including:

• The core Avengers team
• The Thunderbolts
• Wakandan characters
• The original X-Men
• Solo heroes like Doctor Strange, Spider-Man, and She-Hulk
• Newly integrated characters like Deadpool, Wolverine, and Gambit

This massive cast sets the stage for epic battles and complex storylines.

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Comparison to Infinity War and Endgame

While "Infinity War" and "Endgame" dealt with the loss of half the universe's population, "Doomsday" appears to raise the stakes even higher:

• The entire multiverse is at risk, not just a single universe.
• Character deaths may be permanent, unlike the reversible snap in "Infinity War."
• The aftermath will likely lead to a fundamentally altered MCU landscape.

Potential Scenarios for the Doomsday Finale

Based on comic book precedents and Mackie's hints, possible scenarios for the film's ending include:

1. Mass Character Deaths: As universes collide, many heroes might perish in the chaos.

2. Escape to the TVA: Some characters might find refuge in the Time Variance Authority, setting up plot points for "Secret Wars."

3. Doom's Intervention: Dr. Doom could save fragments of various universes, creating the patchwork world of Battleworld.

4. Reality Rewrite: The multiverse's destruction might lead to a complete rewriting of reality, allowing Marvel to reset continuity as needed.

Implications for Future MCU Phases

The events of "Avengers Doomsday" and "Secret Wars" are poised to reshape the MCU in several ways:

1. New Character Dynamics: Heroes who've never interacted before will suddenly share a world.

2. Fresh Storytelling Opportunities: The altered reality opens up possibilities for new conflicts and alliances.

3. Integration of Fox Properties: Characters like the X-Men and Fantastic Four can be seamlessly introduced into the main MCU continuity.

4. Potential for Multiversal Stories: Even after the destruction, the concept of the multiverse might remain a key element in future narratives.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

Mackie's revelations have sparked intense discussion among Marvel fans:

• Excitement over the potential for a truly game-changing event in the MCU.
• Concern over the fate of beloved characters.
• Speculation about how the MCU will handle such a massive shift in its narrative structure.
• Anticipation for the integration of previously separate Marvel properties.

The Role of the Russo Brothers

The involvement of the Russo brothers in both "Doomsday" and "Secret Wars" is significant:

• Their track record with complex, multi-character narratives in "Infinity War" and "Endgame" bodes well for these new projects.
• Their familiarity with the MCU's overarching narrative ensures continuity and coherence in this major transition.
• Their ability to balance spectacle with character development will be crucial in handling such a large-scale story.

Challenges in Adapting Secret Wars

Bringing the "Secret Wars" storyline to the big screen presents several challenges:

1. Condensing Complex Lore: Simplifying the intricate comic book plot for a film audience without losing its essence.

2. Character Balancing: Giving adequate screen time and development to a vast array of characters.

3. Maintaining Emotional Stakes: Ensuring that the grand scale doesn't overshadow personal character arcs.

4. Visual Representation: Bringing the concept of Battleworld to life in a visually compelling and coherent manner.

The Future of the MCU Post-Secret Wars

The events of "Doomsday" and "Secret Wars" are likely to set the stage for:

1. New Team Dynamics: Reshuffled superhero teams with members from various former universes.

2. Altered Character Histories: Heroes and villains might have new backstories in the reconstructed reality.

3. Fresh Conflicts: New power structures and alliances could lead to unprecedented conflicts.

4. Exploration of Identity: Characters grappling with their place in a fundamentally changed world.

Impact on Marvel's Storytelling Approach

This multiversal shake-up could influence Marvel's narrative strategies:

1. More Cosmic-Scale Stories: Building on the multiversal concept for future storylines.

2. Increased Focus on Consequences: Moving away from easily reversible plot points to more permanent changes.

3. Blending of Different Marvel Eras: Incorporating elements from various comic book runs and adaptations.

4. Potential for Alternate Realities: Even after resolution, the multiverse concept could allow for "what if" scenarios and alternate timelines.

Conclusion: A New Era for Marvel

Anthony Mackie's revelations about "Avengers Doomsday" hint at a monumental shift in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film, along with its sequel "Secret Wars," appears set to redefine the MCU's landscape, integrating various Marvel properties and opening up new storytelling avenues.

As fans eagerly await more details, it's clear that Marvel is taking bold steps to evolve its cinematic universe. The destruction and potential rebirth of the multiverse promise not just a conclusion to the current saga, but the dawn of an exciting new era in superhero storytelling.

With high stakes, permanent consequences, and a vast array of characters, "Avengers Doomsday" and "Secret Wars" are poised to be more than just blockbuster films - they represent a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, setting the stage for years of future stories and adventures.

Image Credit: Marvel Movies