The MCU Still Has To Solve Its Kang Problem (Or Does It?)

by

The MCU Still Has To Solve Its Kang Problem (Or Does It?)

Highlights

  • Marvel Studios initially planned Kang as the big bad for the Multiverse Saga.
  • Actor Jonathan Majors’ personal issues led to Kang’s role being halted in further appearances.
  • The studio shifted to Victor von Doom as the next big bad, with Robert Downey Jr. set to portray him.

As a longtime Marvel fan and someone who has witnessed the studio’s journey from the very beginning, I must say, the recent developments surrounding Kang have left me scratching my head. After eagerly anticipating Kang as the big bad for the Multiverse Saga, it’s disappointing to see things taking such an unexpected turn.

After wrapping up the Infinity Saga, Marvel Studios aimed for the Multiverse Saga, which had Kang as the main antagonist. Following his debut in Loki, this was the plan. However, Kang made an appearance in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, but further appearances were put on hold due to actor Jonathan Majors’ personal matters outside the film industry. As a result, Marvel Studios had to adjust their original plans and introduce Victor von Doom as the new main antagonist instead. Robert Downey Jr. was set to play this iconic villain in the upcoming storyline.

After the recent change, it appears that the foundation Marvel Studios established for Kang the Conqueror may go unused, as the antagonist seems to be taking a back seat. So far, Marvel has not revealed any additional plans regarding Kang, causing speculation among fans about whether this villain is finished in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Yet, there’s still time for Marvel Studios to address their Kang predicament before Doom takes center stage in The Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for 2026.

Marvel Studios’ Focus on Kang in the Multiverse Saga

The MCU Still Has To Solve Its Kang Problem (Or Does It?)

For the initial glimpse of Kang, or He Who Remains, fans were treated during the Season 1 finale of Loki. This was intended as a subtle hint for the character, before his official debut in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. His introduction in Quantumania signified the start of multiple appearances, initiating Phase 5 within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In the Quantum Realm, Kang emerged as a formidable adversary for Scott Lang, and had previously encountered Michelle Pfeiffer’s Janet van Dyne.

Initially, Kang seems amicable, but to win Scott’s confidence, he conceals his true intentions: a desperate longing for freedom from the Quantum Realm. He was trapped there by the Council of Kangs following his ambition to annihilate them and rule as The Conqueror across the Multiverse. This introduction to Kang stirred both intrigue and frustration among fans, especially when he was defeated by Ant-Man and Wasp. The film hinted at more turmoil from the Council of Kangs in future films. However, the character’s journey didn’t get off to a smooth start with Quantumania. Despite earning $476 million worldwide, it was criticized as a weak entry in the Ant-Man series and an unsatisfying introduction to Kang.

When allegations arose against Majors, Marvel and Disney initially remained silent, opting to observe the trial’s outcome before determining their next steps. It wasn’t the first delicate situation for the studio that required them to address an artist’s behavior outside of work. In fact, they had previously terminated James Gunn’s contract in 2018 due to offensive tweets. Bob Iger, who was then CEO of Disney, swiftly ended the partnership with Gunn, who was later reinstated.

Despite the gravity of accusations against Majors, Marvel Studios appeared determined to investigate thoroughly before reaching a conclusion. They aimed to act justly instead of focusing on potential implications for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This strategic decision undoubtedly led to some confusion afterwards.

Can Marvel Truly Fix its Kang Issue?

Choosing not to stick with the initial plans for Kang’s role is an unusual decision, given that Majors had only appeared in a few episodes as the character before being let go from his contract. If the studio intended to carry out its plans involving Kang, replacing the actor would have been perfectly reasonable.

Marvel Studios has demonstrated its ability to replace characters when needed without hesitation. For instance, Don Cheadle took over the role of James Rhodes, aka War Machine, from Terrence Howard. The character of Cassie in the Ant-Man series has been portrayed by three different actresses, with Kathryn Newton currently playing Cassie Lang. More recently, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross was recast, with Harrison Ford stepping into the role previously held by the late William Hurt. This pattern of recasting is not new to Marvel. However, an aspect that has been underappreciated involves the reception of The Multiverse Saga, which hasn’t garnered as much popularity as The Infinity Saga.

After facing setbacks from COVID-19 and Hollywood strikes, Marvel Studios is finally recovering its financial losses, largely due to the success of Deadpool and Wolverine. Marvel’s president Kevin Feige, along with Disney’s Bob Iger, have emphasized a focus on quality rather than quantity in future projects. This shift could be behind their decision not to replace Majors for his role, and they are now bringing back the Russo brothers and Downey Jr. for the next two Avengers films. Given this approach, it appears Marvel is ready to go past Kang, but might not want to completely ignore him in the future. Solving the Kang problem isn’t straightforward, but hopefully, he will receive the deserved live-action treatment eventually.

Read More

2024-08-12 19:05