Kevin Feige has reaffirmed that the Blade reboot is progressing despite multiple upheavals within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Blade, a project under development at Marvel Studios for several years, features Mahershala Ali in the titular role. However, the film has faced numerous delays, and its development has extended into 2024, compounded by the departure of its second director.
In a recent interview with BlackTreeTV, Feige addressed the potential for more R-rated films in the MCU following the success of Deadpool and Wolverine. When questioned about the implications for Blade, Feige emphasized that an R-rating is intrinsic to the character of Blade. He indicated that the reboot would indeed embrace this rating, asserting:
For the past few years, as we have strived to perfect this film, our foremost priority has been to avoid hasty decisions and to ensure that we create the definitive Blade movie. The original Blade films, released years ago, set a remarkable standard, with each one being rated R. This rating is not merely a formality but an intrinsic element of Blade’s character, akin to Deadpool. Consequently, we are dedicated to maintaining this essential aspect in the new Blade reboot.
In a separate interview with Blavity’s Shadow and Act, Kevin Feige provided an update on the progress of the Blade reboot, particularly regarding its script. He emphasized that Marvel Studios remains “committed to the movie,” underscoring their determination to ensure the project meets their high standards, asserting that they “are not going to make it until it’s right.” While Feige refrained from divulging specific details, he hinted that the Blade script is showing considerable promise thus far, stating:
We are fully committed to the movie, and our dedication is such that we will not proceed until everything is just right. Although the extended timeline has been frustrating for both us and some fans, we now have a writer actively working on the project. I have reviewed half of his new draft, and it is looking promising so far.
Why Blade Receiving an R-Rating is the Optimal Choice for the MCU Reboot
The prospect of Blade being rated R is arguably the most promising revelation amid the tumultuous developments surrounding the reboot. Since the conclusion of The Infinity Saga and the subsequent transition into The Multiverse Saga, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been intent on evolving. One significant aspect of this evolution is the shift toward darker narratives, which allows the franchise to explore more mature themes.
Deadpool & Wolverine will mark the MCU’s first foray into R-rated cinema, a decision that has already garnered considerable approval from the audience. Extending this approach to Blade not only pays homage to the character’s comic book origins but also paves the way for the reboot to potentially achieve the same success as the original films. Freed from the constraints of a PG-13 rating, Blade can fully embrace its authentic nature and further usher in this new era for Marvel Studios, characterized by a willingness to tell R-rated stories.
However, the more pressing issue remains the timeline for Blade’s production. Currently, the project lacks both a director and a confirmed filming start date. It would not be surprising if Blade’s release were postponed until after The Multiverse Saga, especially considering the anticipated soft reboot of the MCU following Avengers: Secret Wars. For now, the audience must wait patiently to discover Marvel Studios’ plans for the Blade movie.
Blade (2025)
Marvel Studios’ Blade sees the return of the iconic vampire hunter more than two decades after Wesley Snipes first played the character in live-action. Starring Mahershala Ali as Eric Brooks, the Blade reboot officially introduces vampires to the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Eternals’ second post-credits scene teased the Daywalker’s MCU debut. Ali is accompanied by Delroy Lindo and Aaron Pierre in Yann Demange’s 2024 dark superhero movie.
- Release Date: November 7, 2025
- Studio(s): Disney
- Distributor(s): Disney
- Cast: Mahershala Ali, Delroy Lindo, Aaron Pierre
- Franchise(s): Marvel Cinematic Universe
