The Marvel Cinematic Universe stands ready to unleash its boldest chapter yet. Phase 6 kicks off in 2025, promising the most thrilling installments of the Multiverse Saga to date. Marvel fans, get ready for an action-packed 2025! “Captain America: Brave New World” launches the excitement in February, “Thunderbolts” storms theaters in May, and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” debuts in July.
Yet the biggest shock arrives in 2026 – Robert Downey Jr. makes his grand MCU comeback, not as Tony Stark, but as the formidable Doctor Doom. Marvel Studios now takes a quality-first approach, carefully spacing out their yearly releases. This timeline maps out every confirmed Marvel project through 2029, from release dates to casting news, showing exactly how each piece connects in the massive Multiverse Saga puzzle.
Table of Contents
Captain America: Brave New World (February 2025)
“You may be Captain America, but you’re not Steve Rogers.” — Harrison Ford, Actor who plays President Thaddeus Ross in Captain America: Brave New World
Sam Wilson soars into theaters February 14 as Marvel’s star-spangled hero, with Anthony Mackie fully embracing the vibranium shield and everything it represents. This fourth Captain America adventure launches 2025’s Marvel slate with a political thriller that promises to shake the MCU’s foundations.
Plot Details and New Characters
The story throws Sam Wilson into a high-stakes conspiracy surrounding newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross. At the heart of the conflict lies a controversial treaty about adamantium – a powerful metal discovered on “Celestial Island,” which emerged after Tiamut’s appearance in the Indian Ocean during “Eternals” events.
Tim Blake Nelson returns as Dr. Samuel Sterns, bringing vengeful schemes and mind control tactics after years of imprisonment under Ross’s orders. The cast grows stronger with Joaquín Torres stepping up as the new Falcon, while Isaiah Bradley’s return from “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” adds deeper layers to Sam’s journey.
Harrison Ford as Red Hulk: What to Expect
Harrison Ford’s arrival in the MCU as President Ross brings heavyweight talent to the franchise. The 82-year-old star didn’t just play the role – he became it, performing his own motion capture for the Red Hulk transformation. “Being an idiot for money,” Ford joked about the experience, yet his dedication showed through multiple takes of the transformation sequences.
Director Julius Onah couldn’t contain his praise for Ford’s “mind-blowing” performance. The team made a bold choice – keeping Red Hulk silent to amplify the raw emotional impact of the character’s rage. Unlike Banner’s green giant, Ross’s Red Hulk radiates intense heat, a unique twist on the gamma radiation effects.
How It Connects to The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Marvel breaks new ground here – “Brave New World” stands as their first theatrical release directly continuing a Disney+ series storyline. Sam Wilson’s evolution from “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” takes center stage, exploring his growth as Captain America after Steve Rogers. Plus, Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes makes a surprise return, carefully kept under wraps until the film’s release.
Production Status and Behind-the-Scenes
The cameras started rolling Spring 2023 at Trilith Studios, with the team capturing authentic Washington D.C. locations to ground the story. Production designer Ramsey Avery went all out, building detailed replicas of the White House Oval Office and Rose Garden.
While the film channels the political thriller vibes of “Winter Soldier,” Mackie sees it as something bigger – “a foundation on which Marvel will build the universe now”.
Thunderbolts (May 2025)
“Global power is shifting. You’re just a pawn.” — Tim Blake Nelson, Actor who plays Samuel Sterns/Leader in Captain America: Brave New World
Marvel’s most dangerous team storms theaters May 2 as Thunderbolts* brings together the MCU’s deadliest antiheroes. Florence Pugh promises fans “quite a badass indie, A24-feeling assassin movie with Marvel superheroes”.
The Mystery Behind the Asterisk
Marvel Studios sparked fan theories with a single character – the asterisk added to the title. A Japanese poster finally revealed the truth: “*The Avengers are not available”. This clever detail echoes Valentina Allegra de Fontaine’s haunting trailer question: “The Avengers are not coming. Who will keep the American people safe?”. The asterisk marks these outcasts as Earth’s reluctant defenders when Earth’s mightiest heroes can’t answer the call.
Full Team Roster and Character Backgrounds
Jake Schreier directs this powerhouse lineup of returning MCU favorites:
- Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) – Hawkeye’s deadly nemesis and former Black Widow
- Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan) – The century-old soldier seeking redemption
- Red Guardian (David Harbor) – Russia’s super-soldier with father figure issues
- Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko) – The perfect mirror of any fighting style
- U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell) – A tarnished shield’s desperate bearer
- Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen) – Quantum-powered SHIELD agent gone rogue
Lewis Pullman joins as the mysterious “Bob” (whispered to be the Sentry), while Julia Louis-Dreyfus returns as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, stepping up as CIA Director.
Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova Takes Center Stage
Yelena commands the spotlight in this dangerous dance. Sebastian Stan’s wordless gesture toward Pugh speaks volumes about her central role. Director Schreier puts it plainly: “She’s front and center. Yelena is in a certain place at the beginning of the film, and how she finds her way out of that place… is at the heart of the story”.
Pugh herself hints at Yelena’s transformation: “She’s a completely different person to the person that you’d assume she would be. She’s coming out of a few years of quite traumatic events. Where does that leave a person?”. Her unlikely bond with Pullman’s “absolutely useless” Bob adds another layer to her evolving story.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 2025)
Marvel’s most iconic family rockets into the MCU as The Fantastic Four: First Steps lights up theaters on July 25, 2025. Rather than retell their origin, this Phase Six milestone drops viewers into a world where these heroes already protect a uniquely stylized Manhattan.
Cast Breakdown: Pedro Pascal and the First Family
Marvel’s dream team assembles with Pedro Pascal leading the charge as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, joined by Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm/Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm/Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/The Thing). The stellar supporting cast features Julia Garner as the cosmic Silver Surfer, Ralph Ineson bringing gravitas to Galactus, and Paul Walter Hauser in a mystery role. “WandaVision” mastermind Matt Shakman directs from a script crafted by Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer.
1960s Setting and Retro-Futuristic Design
Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige pulls back the curtain on a 1960s New York City unlike anything we’ve seen. “There were a lot of smart people who noticed that cityscape didn’t look exactly like the New York that we know, or the New York that existed in the ’60s in our world,” Feige teases. The film channels pure Jack Kirby energy – gleaming retrofuturistic towers pierce the sky while H.E.R.B.I.E. the robot buzzes around our heroes in their classic blue-and-white uniforms.
Galactus and Silver Surfer: The Cosmic Threat
Galactus, the planet-devouring cosmic entity, looms large with Ralph Ineson bringing the World Devourer to terrifying life. Forget the cloudy mess from 2007’s “Rise of the Silver Surfer” – this Galactus steps straight from Kirby’s legendary artwork. Julia Garner glides in as his herald, the Silver Surfer. Marvel’s official word? Our heroes “must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer”.
How This Film Sets Up Doctor Doom
While Galactus threatens Earth from above, whispers suggest Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom lurks in the shadows. The alternate universe setting could plant seeds for Doom’s rise before he emerges as the mastermind in “Avengers: Doomsday”. Fan theories point to a Thanos-style post-credits tease, giving audiences their first glimpse of Downey’s take on Marvel’s greatest villain.
Blade (Late 2025)
Marvel’s vampire hunter can’t seem to escape his own shadows. Blade stumbles toward a late 2025 release date, wrestling with setbacks since its 2019 announcement. Yet this troubled production might just deliver the MCU’s darkest chapter yet.
Mahershala Ali’s Journey to Playing the Daywalker
Some roles choose their actors. For two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali, Blade chose him. Fresh from his “Green Book” Academy Award victory, Ali didn’t wait for Marvel’s call – he made one. Breaking from typical casting traditions, he pitched himself directly to the studio for the legendary vampire hunter role. While fans have only heard his voice in 2021’s “Eternals” post-credits scene, Ali’s dedication hasn’t wavered despite reported frustrations with delays. The daywalker’s patience matches his persistence.
Production Challenges and Director Changes
Picture this: Two directors exit. Five writers take turns reshaping the story. Bassam Tariq leaves two months before cameras roll in September 2022. Yann Demange follows in 2024. The script bounces between writers – Stacy Osei-Kuffour, Michael Starrbury, Nic Pizzolatto, Michael Green, and Eric Pearson each taking a swing. One version even placed Blade’s daughter in 1920s America, hunted by Mia Goth’s vampire villain Lilith. Now? The story plants its stakes firmly in present day.
How Blade Fits into the Supernatural Side of the MCU
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige stands firm: “We are committed to Blade… the character will indeed make it to the MCU.” Beyond vampire hunting, Blade opens doors to Marvel’s supernatural realm, building on hints dropped in “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.” Half-human, half-vampire, all warrior – Blade bridges two worlds. Think of him as the “Captain America of monster killing,” leading the charge into Marvel’s darker corners where traditional heroes fear to tread.
Avengers: Doomsday (May 2026)
Marvel’s mightiest heroes charge back to theaters May 1, 2026 with Avengers: Doomsday on May 1, 2026. Six years after “Endgame” shattered records, this game-changing chapter promises to rewrite everything we know about the Multiverse Saga.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Return as Doctor Doom
Lightning strikes twice at Marvel Studios. Robert Downey Jr. steps back into the MCU spotlight – not as Tony Stark, but as the legendary Doctor Doom. Marvel CEO Kevin Feige dreamed up this casting twist before Downey ever donned Iron Man’s armor. Now Downey dives deep into Doom’s world, shaping the character’s history and iconic look himself. Joe Russo teases something special: “a villain who thinks he’s the hero of his own story,” promising an antagonist worthy of Downey’s remarkable talents.
The Russo Brothers’ Vision for the Film
The path to “Doomsday” wasn’t straight. Joe and Anthony Russo initially passed on directing, even with Downey’s backing. Then Stephen McFeely pitched what Joe simply called “a really powerful story” – and everything changed. Now the brothers tackle both “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars” simultaneously in London. Secrecy surrounds the production like a fortress – soundstages shield scenes from prying eyes while location shoots stay hidden from public view.
Expected Cast and Character Appearances
Marvel broke the internet with their five-hour cast reveal, showcasing 26 director’s chairs with character names. MCU titans Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), and Paul Rudd (Ant-Man) stand ready. Yet the real shock? Fox’s X-Men legends join the fray – Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), and James Marsden (Cyclops) cross the multiverse. Plus, every hero from “Thunderbolts” and “Fantastic Four” answers the call, creating Marvel’s biggest crossover yet.
How Kang’s Removal Changed the Multiverse Saga
“The Kang Dynasty” died with Jonathan Majors’ MCU exit. From its ashes, Doctor Doom rose to become the saga’s ultimate threat. Reports suggest a mind-bending twist – Downey plays a Tony Stark variant who became Doom in another reality. Picture the emotional gut punch when Avengers must face someone who resembles their fallen comrade. The multiverse doesn’t just bend reality – it breaks hearts.
Spider-Man 4 (July 2026)
Your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man swings into action July 24, 2026, as Spider-Man 4 follows the earth-shattering events of “Avengers: Doomsday”. Tom Holland’s fourth solo adventure promises fresh direction and new challenges in Peter Parker’s ever-complicated life.
Tom Holland’s Return and Story Continuation
Holland dropped the big news on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” – cameras roll summer 2025. “Next summer, we start shooting. Everything’s good to go — we’re nearly there,” the star shared with trademark enthusiasm. Reading the script with Zendaya sparked magic: “lit a fire in me” had them “bouncing around the living room”. Yet Holland stays grounded, noting “it needs work” while juggling Marvel’s complex timeline.
Destin Daniel Cretton’s Direction
“Shang-Chi” mastermind Destin Daniel Cretton steps into Jon Watts’ shoes, taking Spider-Man’s story in bold new directions. While “Shang-Chi 2” waits in the wings, sources confirm our web-slinger takes priority. Cretton becomes the fourth visionary to guide a solo Spidey film, bringing fresh eyes to Peter’s world.
Addressing the Memory Wipe from No Way Home
Doctor Strange’s reality-altering spell hangs heavy over everything – nobody remembers Peter Parker exists. MJ and Ned, once his closest allies, now pass him like a stranger. Writers call it “some sort of magical redaction,” essentially hitting reset on Peter’s life. Spider-Man still protects the city, but Peter Parker must rebuild his world from nothing.
Potential Villains and Supporting Cast
“Stranger Things” powerhouse Sadie Sink joins the cast, her role still wrapped in mystery. Whispers point to Chameleon as the main threat, though don’t expect that exact name – the villain’s “Kraven” appearance complicates things. Plus, Doctor Doom’s shadow from “Doomsday” looms large over Peter’s next chapter.
Untitled Marvel Film (November 2026)
Marvel Studios keeps fans guessing with a mystery slot between “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.” This untitled blockbuster, locked for November 6, 2026, might just hold the key to Phase 6’s biggest secrets.
Potential Projects for This Release Date
Two heavy hitters vie for this crucial spot. Industry insider Alex Perez points to Black Panther 3 leading the race, with Shang-Chi 2 ready as backup. The scales tip toward Wakanda – Destin Daniel Cretton’s Spider-Man 4 commitments take Shang-Chi off the table. Plus, Black Panther’s story perfectly bridges the gap between Marvel’s twin Avengers epics, adding layers to the Multiverse Saga’s complex tapestry.
Rumored Directors and Writers
Ryan Coogler might return to Wakanda’s director’s chair – but he’s not coming alone. Word has it Coogler won’t take no for an answer about working with Denzel Washington. “Dying to work” with the screen legend, sources say Coogler’s determination means “as long as he’s interested, it’s going to happen”. The writing team stays under wraps while Marvel makes their final choice.
How This Film Bridges Doomsday and Secret Wars
Sitting between Marvel’s biggest showdowns, this mystery film carries massive weight. Rumors suggest both this and Spider-Man 4 could unfold on “Battleworld“, the patchwork planet central to Secret Wars comics. Should Black Panther claim the slot, Wakanda’s tech wizardry and multiversal connections might reveal how our heroes survive Doctor Doom’s master plan from Doomsday.
Avengers: Secret Wars (May 2027)
Marvel’s ultimate showdown crashes into theaters on May 7, 2027. Avengers: Secret Wars promises to shatter every boundary as the Multiverse Saga reaches its explosive conclusion. Get ready for Marvel’s most daring crossover yet.
The Comic Book Inspiration
The Russo brothers aren’t picking favorites – they’re taking the best from two legendary tales. Their vision merges the 1984 Secret Wars series with Jonathan Hickman’s 2015 epic. While the original sent heroes to Battleworld for the Beyonder’s cosmic game, Hickman’s version watched universes collapse under Doctor Doom’s godlike reign. By weaving these threads together, the directors craft the perfect stage for the MCU’s multiversal mayhem.
Expected Multiverse Implications
Remember those universe-crushing incursions from Doctor Strange’s last adventure? They’re back with a vengeance. The multiverse teeters on collapse, with only fragments surviving on Battleworld. This cosmic catastrophe opens doors for familiar faces from every corner of Marvel’s movie history to return.
How Doctor Doom Factors into the Story
Doom doesn’t just join the party – he runs it. Both comic versions watch him steal the Beyonders’ power and crown himself supreme villain. The 2015 story saw him rule Battleworld as an all-powerful God Emperor. Now Robert Downey Jr.’s Doom steps into those metal boots, completing the dark journey that began in Doomsday.
Potential for Original Avengers to Return
Marvel’s original heroes might answer one last call. The multiverse offers countless ways to bring them back – variants, alternate realities, you name it. Rumors even point to Chris Evans picking up the shield again.
Will This Reset the MCU?
Talk of a total reboot fills fan forums, but don’t bet on it. Marvel exec Brad Winderbaum keeps it real – a full reboot is “unlikely” and “very difficult” with 15+ years of MCU history. Look for a gentler refresh instead, smoothly bringing the X-Men and Fantastic Four into the fold.
Shang-Chi 2 (July 2027)
Master of kung fu, wielder of the Ten Rings, box office champion – Simu Liu’s Shang-Chi returns for round two. Marvel Studios officially green-lights Shang-Chi 2 for July 2027, with Liu promising fans the project is “definitely happening”.
Simu Liu’s Return and Character Evolution
Liu can’t contain his excitement about stepping back into the ring. “Very excited to work on it,” he beams. The master martial artist’s path stretches far beyond his first adventure – now he must master the legendary Ten Rings while finding his place among Earth’s mightiest heroes. Liu teases bigger responsibilities ahead, while Kevin Feige hints at exploring “what Shang-Chi would do with his newfound power” and “how he fits into the larger MCU”.
The Ten Rings Organization’s Expanding Role
Remember that jaw-dropping post-credits scene? Xialing (Meng’er Zhang) shatters tradition, transforming her father’s boys-only criminal empire by welcoming female fighters into the ranks. Sister vs brother? Ally vs enemy? The Ten Rings organization – lurking in MCU shadows since Tony Stark’s first outing – holds more secrets than ever, especially after those rings fired their mysterious signal into space.
Exploring More of the Mystical Side of the MCU
Ready to dive deeper into Marvel’s mystical realms? The sequel promises to push beyond the wonders of Ta Lo. Those dimension-hopping Ten Rings might just crack open the Multiverse Saga wide open, connecting to the upcoming Avengers epics. Whispers suggest time itself bends to Shang-Chi’s will in this next chapter. The master of kung fu might just become master of the multiverse.
Untitled Marvel Film (November 2027)
Past the cosmic chaos of Secret Wars and Shang-Chi’s next chapter, Marvel Studios plants another mystery flag on November 5, 2027. This date might just mark the moment everything changes – where does the MCU go after the Multiverse Saga ends?
Potential Projects for This Release Date
Six months after Secret Wars closes one door, another opens. Smart money points to Marvel’s X-Men reboot claiming this strategic spot, perfectly matching the studio’s vision through 2029. Michael Lesslie already crafts the mutants’ screenplay, making this more than just wishful thinking.
Bob Iger’s words echo through Marvel’s halls – “quality over quantity.” Two or three films per year, each one counting. No filler, no waste, just pure storytelling purpose.
How This Film Might Launch the Next MCU Saga
Listen closely in Hollywood’s corridors – whispers grow louder about “The Mutant Saga.” This November release could light the torch for Marvel’s next great adventure.
Perfect timing? You bet. Secret Wars promises that “soft reboot” everyone’s talking about, clearing the path for mutants to step into MCU spotlight. Marvel’s master plan takes shape – trading Avengers-focused tales for X-Men at center stage.
Kevin Feige’s been playing the long game with mutants. This release doesn’t just close old doors – it kicks new ones wide open. Ready for Marvel’s next evolution?
Black Panther 3 (February 2028)
Wakanda rises again February 2028. Black Panther 3 steps out of Secret Wars’ shadow, tackling both multiversal fallout and the kingdom’s shifting power dynamics.
Wakanda’s Future After Namor Conflict
The Wakanda and Talokan peace treaty stands on shaky ground. Sure, both nations benefit, but Namor’s warning to Namora speaks volumes – this alliance might not last. Meanwhile, M’Baku’s claim to the throne reshapes Wakanda’s leadership. Shuri keeps the panther mantle but drops the crown, letting her focus on science while M’Baku handles politics. Two leaders, two paths, one stronger Wakanda.
Denzel Washington’s Rumored Role
Ryan Coogler won’t take no for an answer about casting Denzel Washington. “I’ve been dying to work with Denzel,” he declared on Nightcap. “As long as he’s interested, man, it’s going to happen”. Washington spilled the beans himself – November 2024 saw him accidentally reveal Coogler’s writing him a part, then apologizing for the early reveal. No official announcement yet, but both sides keep dropping hints.
Continuing T’Challa’s Legacy
Young T’Challa, son of a king and spy, holds Wakanda’s future in his tiny hands. Growing up in Haiti, far from palace politics, the prince charts his own course. Don’t believe those original T’Challa recasting rumors – Marvel’s Nate Moore shut them down hard: “no truth to the rumors”. With Shuri and Namor confirmed for “Avengers: Doomsday”, this third chapter weaves Wakanda deeper into Marvel’s multiverse tapestry.
The X-Men (May 2028)
Marvel’s mightiest mutants prepare to shake up Earth-616. The X-Men targets a May 2028 release, marking the moment millions of fans have awaited since Disney’s 2019 Fox acquisition. The Children of the Atom finally step into their rightful MCU spotlight.
Introducing Mutants to the Main MCU Timeline
Kevin Feige plays the long game. Marvel’s mastermind confirms we’ll wait until after “Avengers: Secret Wars” for the full mutant roster reveal. Smart move – this patience lets mutantkind emerge naturally, dodging the timeline tangles that trapped Fox’s X-Men. While insider Jeff Sneider hints at a 2027 debut, May 2028 fits Marvel’s careful development rhythm.
Potential Cast and Character Lineup
The rumor mill spins with dream casting choices. Picture this: Denzel Washington donning Magneto’s helmet, bringing gravitas to the Master of Magnetism. “Stranger Things” powerhouse Sadie Sink might join the school for gifted youngsters, while DeWanda Wise could command storms as the weather-wielding goddess herself. Marvel clearly aims younger, fresher, bolder.
How X-Men ’97 Influences the Live-Action Adaptation
X-Men ’97 didn’t just succeed – it soared. Those 99% critic and 94% audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes speak volumes. The animated sensation showed exactly how to balance mutant abilities, team dynamics, and found-family heart. Fans cheered its comic-faithful approach and mature storytelling. Lesson learned: respect the source, embrace the depth.
Differentiating from Fox’s X-Men Films
Forget Fox’s Earth-10005 and its Wolverine-heavy focus. Marvel Studios promises a true team effort, letting every mutant shine. This fresh start cuts ties with Fox’s twenty years of tangled plots. The X-Men aren’t just joining the MCU – they’re becoming its beating heart.
Armor Wars (July 2028)
Tony Stark’s worst fears come true. Armor Wars powers up from Disney+ series to full theatrical release July 2028, tackling the dangerous fallout when Stark tech falls into the wrong hands.
Don Cheadle’s War Machine Takes the Lead
James “Rhodey” Rhodes steps out of the sidelines and into his own spotlight. The road to War Machine’s solo flight started in 2011 with Joe Robert Cole penning the first script. While Disney+ plans came and went, September 2022 saw Marvel upgrade this story to the big screen it deserves.
Secret Invasion changed everything – Rhodey wasn’t even Rhodey, but replaced by a Skrull somewhere along the way. Cheadle puts it perfectly: “In every successive film, he’s coming more and more out of Tony’s shadow and becoming his own person, but I think we haven’t really figured out who he is and really dug into that, so that’s what the movie is for”.
Tony Stark’s Legacy and Technology
The classic “Armor Wars” comics see Iron Man tech scattered to the winds. Now, with Stark gone, Rhodey must track down every last piece before it wreaks havoc. Pure nightmare fuel for Tony – his life’s work twisted into weapons he fought to prevent.
Connections to Iron Heart and the Stark Legacy
Dominique Thorne’s Riri Williams/Ironheart joins the tech hunt, linking the next generation of armored heroes. Together, they guard Stark’s innovations against rising threats. Whispers suggest Doctor Doom might snag some Stark tech during Ironheart, setting up “the perfect adversary for Rhodey”. Yassir Lester stays on script duty, carrying over his vision from the series plans.
Doctor Strange 3 (November 2028)
Reality bends once more as Benedict Cumberbatch conjures his third solo outing. Doctor Strange 3 materializes in theaters November 2028, weaving crucial threads between “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.”
Multiverse Aftermath and Consequences
Strange must face the music after “Multiverse of Madness.” His meddling triggered an incursion in the Dark Dimension, threatening to shatter multiple realities like broken mirrors. Sources whisper “Time Runs Out” as the perfect subtitle, while Strange’s investigation sets the stage for his confirmed “central role in Avengers: Secret Wars“.
Clea’s Role in the Sequel
Charlize Theron’s Clea steps from shadows into spotlight, bringing both Dark Dimension royalty and cosmic danger. Dormammu’s niece wields sorcery that rivals Strange’s own, guiding him through her treacherous homeland. Beyond magical might, their partnership echoes comic tales of eventual marriage, forging an alliance powerful enough to face whatever darkness awaits.
Potential for Horror Elements with Sam Raimi
Sam Raimi circles back to the director’s chair, promising to push deeper into horror territory. His “Multiverse of Madness” already channeled “Evil Dead” vibes, answering Marvel’s call for “elements of horror” in Strange’s corner of the MCU. Raimi’s mastery of suspense and shadow perfectly matches the Dark Dimension’s otherworldly terrors.
Deadpool 4 (2029)
Wade Wilson’s MCU future hangs by a thread. Deadpool 4 floats somewhere in 2029’s possibilities, even as its predecessor shatters records. Marvel Studios keeps the door cracked, but Ryan Reynolds hints he might prefer playing in someone else’s sandbox.
Following Up on Deadpool & Wolverine’s Success
Numbers don’t lie – Deadpool & Wolverine demolished box office charts, raking in over INR 112.90 billion worldwide. The Merc with a Mouth didn’t just break records – he owned them, claiming both highest-grossing R-rated film and 2024’s second-biggest hit. Kevin Feige called the July 2024 release “really when it all starts” for Fox characters joining Marvel’s playground.
More X-Men Integration Possibilities
Plot twist! Earth-10005 survived Deadpool & Wolverine when everyone expected a final bow. This surprise keeps doors open for more mutants to crash Marvel’s party. Wade Wilson might just become our multiversal tour guide heading into Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars. Feige plays it cool: “the plans with Deadpool and Wolverine will always be the same: we’re always wondering where we can fit them in”.
Ryan Reynolds’ Creative Input
Reynolds spills some spicy takes on Wade’s future. Forget solo spotlight – he sees Deadpool as “a great supporting or ensemble player”. While dodging another standalone film, he’s hungry for more Wolverine team-ups, insisting he “would always want Deadpool and Wolverine to be paired in some way”. A fourth solo movie? “Feels a little iterative and redundant”. Reynolds would rather crash “someone else’s movie” as “a fifth banana”, keeping that signature chaos fans crave.
Comparison Table on New Marvel Movies
Marvel’s master plan unfolds year by year. Here’s your complete guide to every confirmed project through 2029:
| Movie Title | Release Date | Director | Main Cast/Characters | Key Plot Elements | MCU/Saga Connection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain America: Brave New World | February 14, 2025 | Julius Onah | Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson), Harrison Ford (President Ross), Tim Blake Nelson (Dr. Sterns) | Investigation of conspiracy involving adamantium treaty; Ross transforms into Red Hulk | Direct sequel to Falcon and Winter Soldier series |
| Thunderbolts* | May 2, 2025 | Jake Schreier | Florence Pugh (Yelena), Sebastian Stan (Bucky), David Harbor (Red Guardian) | Team serves as Avengers replacement; focuses on Yelena’s character journey | “*The Avengers are not available” storyline |
| The Fantastic Four: First Steps | July 25, 2025 | Matt Shakman | Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm), Ralph Ineson (Galactus) | Set in 1960s; team must defend Earth from Galactus | Introduces MCU’s First Family; potential Doctor Doom setup |
| Blade | Late 2025 | Not mentioned | Mahershala Ali (Blade) | Present-day vampire hunting story; expanding supernatural MCU | Connects to MCU’s supernatural elements |
| Avengers: Doomsday | May 1, 2026 | Russo Brothers | Robert Downey Jr. (Doctor Doom), Multiple X-Men actors | Doctor Doom emerges as primary antagonist | Replaces Kang Dynasty; pivotal Multiverse Saga film |
| Spider-Man 4 | July 24, 2026 | Destin Daniel Cretton | Tom Holland (Peter Parker), Zendaya, Sadie Sink | Addresses No Way Home memory wipe aftermath | Follows Avengers: Doomsday events |
| Avengers: Secret Wars | May 7, 2027 | Russo Brothers | Not fully revealed | Based on both 1984 and 2015 Secret Wars comics | Multiverse Saga finale |
| Shang-Chi 2 | July 2027 | Not mentioned | Simu Liu (Shang-Chi) | Explores Ten Rings organization; mystical elements | Connects to multiversal events |
| Black Panther 3 | February 2028 | Ryan Coogler | Denzel Washington (rumored) | Wakanda-Talokan alliance; young T’Challa’s story | Follows Secret Wars aftermath |
| The X-Men | May 2028 | Not mentioned | Denzel Washington (rumored as Magneto), Sadie Sink (rumored) | First MCU mutant team introduction | Post-Multiverse Saga integration |
| Armor Wars | July 2028 | Not mentioned | Don Cheadle (War Machine) | Stolen Stark technology recovery mission | Connects to Iron Man’s legacy |
| Doctor Strange 3 | November 2028 | Sam Raimi (finalizing) | Benedict Cumberbatch (Strange), Charlize Theron (Clea) | Dark Dimension incursion threat | Bridge between Doomsday and Secret Wars |
| Deadpool 4 | 2029 | Not mentioned | Ryan Reynolds (uncertain return) | Not fully revealed | Potential X-Men universe connection |
Conclusion
Marvel Studios charts their boldest course yet. This roadmap through 2029 outshines even the legendary Infinity Saga, with “Captain America: Brave New World” lighting the fuse for an explosive journey toward “Secret Wars” and beyond.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom twist proves Marvel’s genius for reinvention. Pair that with Pedro Pascal donning Reed Richards’ suit and mutants finally stepping into the spotlight – you’ve got a studio choosing story depth over quick cash grabs.
Watch how they play the long game. “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars” stand like tentpoles holding up a circus of possibilities, while “Armor Wars” and “Doctor Strange 3” weave the human threads between cosmic battles. Every piece counts, every story matters.
Old friends meet new faces across this ambitious slate. Black Panther’s legacy grows stronger, Shang-Chi’s mystical world expands, and Spider-Man swings into uncharted territory. Meanwhile, Blade sharpens his stakes and the Fantastic Four prepare for their MCU debut.
Marvel’s learned their lessons well. Fewer releases, stronger connections, better stories – that’s the new playbook. They’re not just making movies anymore. They’re crafting the next chapter of a legend that changed cinema forever.
FAQs related to New Marvel Movies
Q1. What are the major Marvel movie releases planned for 2025?
In 2025, Marvel has several big releases lined up, including “Captain America: Brave New World” in February, “Thunderbolts” in May, and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” in July. These films will kick off Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and set the stage for the climactic chapters of the Multiverse Saga.
Q2. How will Robert Downey Jr. return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Robert Downey Jr. is set to return to the MCU in “Avengers: Doomsday” (May 2026), but not as Tony Stark. Instead, he will be playing the iconic villain Doctor Doom, a casting decision that originated from Marvel CEO Kevin Feige’s vision for the character.
Q3. When can we expect to see the X-Men fully integrated into the MCU?
According to Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, fans will need to wait until after “Avengers: Secret Wars” (May 2027) to see the full mutant team debut in the main MCU timeline. The X-Men are expected to have their own feature film release around May 2028.
Q4. What is the status of Shang-Chi 2?
While an official release date hasn’t been announced, Simu Liu has confirmed that Shang-Chi 2 is in active development at Marvel Studios. The sequel is expected to explore more of the mystical elements introduced in the first film and potentially connect to events in upcoming Avengers films. It’s currently targeting a July 2027 release.
Q5. How will Doctor Strange 3 tie into the larger Multiverse Saga?
Doctor Strange 3, slated for November 2028, will likely address the aftermath of multiversal events from previous films. The story is expected to focus on Strange dealing with an incursion he triggered in the Dark Dimension, potentially setting up crucial elements for “Avengers: Secret Wars” and positioning Strange for a central role in the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga.
