Back in 2008, after a string of failed franchises from other studios starring their most iconic characters—with varying degrees of success—Marvel Comics decided to do something unparalleled in...
Anna Ford, Assistant Culture Editor
• May 13, 2023
In a bittersweet and satisfying conclusion to the beloved trilogy, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” (“Vol. 3”) follows the events of "Thor: Love and Thunder" as Peter Quill (Chris Pratt)—a.k.a “Star-Lord”—and the rest of the team race to save Rocket's (Bradley Cooper) life and come to terms with their ever-shifting group dynamics.
“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” kicks off Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with a zany tale of fatherhood, revolution and giant ants. Starring Paul Rudd as Ant-Man and Evangeline...
Reboots can be tiresome, especially as we approach the second Batman recasting over the past decade, but they can also lead to the most invigorating visions. It is true that movie studios and screenwriters should focus on more original ideas, but movie reboots are not something that should be dismissed immediately. Reboots such as “Batman Begins,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” and “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” show us that reboots can be the best thing for a franchise when done correctly. Instead of viewing each reboot with dismay once they come to our attention, we can view it with curiosity. If we ever find ourselves disappointed or unimpressed by a reboot, then we can always go back to the original.
We may still be in the early stages of 2022, but it is hard not to look ahead to what incredible films are in store for the year. 2021 finished up with terrific blockbusters like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and captivating dramas like “Don’t Look Up.” The lineup of films this year is expansive and looks promising. The year features multiple Marvel and DC superhero films, video game adaptations, long-awaited sequels and bone-chilling horror films, two of which were filmed here in Wilmington. This year may be another long one, but a great way to start it off is by looking out for these films coming to the closest theater or streaming service nearby.
Disney+ has presented fans with shows that act as pivotal additions to the MCU canon, and “Hawkeye” is a strong debut that looks like it can add to the streaming services winning streak of Marvel shows. The grounded series continues Clint Barton’s story and prepares to pave the way for Kate Bishop’s future in the MCU.
“Eternals” is not the best film to come out of the MCU, but it’s an invitation to an ever-expanding future for the cinematic universe. Director Chloé Zhao presents a reflective film that elevates the scope of the MCU. Despite its shortcomings, Zhao’s creative freedom demonstrates the range of themes and new ideas that Marvel Studios may allow directors to produce in the future.
Since Marvel Studios made its Disney+ debut with “WandaVision” in January, it has been universally praised by critics and viewers alike for its daringly unique take on the MCU mythos. The series follows...
After 21 films over 11 years, the finale of this incarnation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe will conclude on April 26 with the premiere of Avengers: Endgame.
In anticipation of this worldwide blockbuster...
