Marvel Studios has embarked on a journey into the Multiverse, a central theme in Phases 4, 5, and 6, ultimately leading to Avengers: Secret Wars, following the conclusion of the Infinity Saga.
In a recent article by The Hollywood Reporter (THR), Marvel Studios unveiled three upcoming MCU films deemed crucial for the franchise's future, shedding light on the most significant projects of Phases 5 and 6.
Marvel Studios' Three Most Important Films
Deadpool 3
THR revealed that Marvel Studios places great importance on the upcoming Deadpool 3, featuring Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson and Hugh Jackman as Logan (aka Wolverine).
The exact reasons for the significance of Deadpool 3 remain unknown, but several factors could be influencing this decision. The film presents a unique opportunity to introduce Multiversal elements, especially characters from Fox's X-Men, potentially tied to Avengers: Secret Wars or even Avengers: The Kang Dynasty.
Moreover, Deadpool 3 promises an in-depth exploration of the Multiverse, paving the way for creative utilization of Multiversal intricacies in the next two Avengers films.
Marvel Studios' optimism for Deadpool 3 may also stem from its colossal potential at the global box office. The film could not only break records as the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time but might even approach the $2 billion mark, depending on its success upon release.
Whatever the reasons, Deadpool 3 is now firmly established as a major event in the MCU, considered one of the most important projects (and listed among Disney's crucial movies for 2024).
Avengers 5
Following four crucial Avengers films in MCU history, Avengers 5, formerly titled The Kang Dynasty, also holds a prominent place among the three most important upcoming films.
Scheduled for theatrical release on May 1, 2026, Avengers 5 might undergo changes following the departure of Jonathan Majors and internal development shifts. Similar to Deadpool 3, Avengers 5 has the potential to generate massive revenues while bringing together all events in the MCU since Avengers: Endgame.
The film is expected to feature new characters as Earth's newest heroes, exploring interactions between characters who have never crossed paths before, acting as a prelude to Avengers: Secret Wars, anticipated as the MCU's grandest film to date.
Avengers: Secret Wars
It comes as no surprise that Marvel Studios considers Avengers: Secret Wars one of the most crucial films for the future of the MCU. With the potential to be the biggest MCU film or even the largest in cinematic history, Avengers: Secret Wars comes with high expectations.
Upon Secret Wars' release, Deadpool and Wolverine will officially join the franchise, the Fantastic Four will have been introduced, and numerous established characters will have progressed in their narrative arcs.
Marvel Studios could also use Secret Wars and the Multiverse to bring in characters from past Marvel projects, MCU, or otherwise.
Predicting the financial success of Secret Wars would be a major understatement. If Phases 5 and 6 unfold correctly, building anticipation for the upcoming film, there's a chance it could become the highest-grossing film of all time.
It's essential to note that Marvel Studios likely considers Secret Wars crucial due to its potential impact on Phase 7 and beyond. In the unlikely event of failure, a significant portion of the fanbase might be so disappointed that generating excitement for what follows could prove challenging.
As Marvel Studios charts a course into the future, the selection of Deadpool 3, Avengers 5, and Avengers: Secret Wars as the linchpins of Phases 5 and 6 reveals a strategic vision that extends beyond mere cinematic success. These films, each in its own way, promises to reshape the MCU landscape, introducing Multiversal complexities, fresh narratives, and an ensemble of characters that will leave an indelible mark on the franchise's legacy. The anticipation surrounding these projects heightens, offering fans not just cinematic spectacles but a glimpse into the MCU's evolution, setting the stage for what lies beyond Infinity.
