Comic Book Clique

Robert Downey Jr Says He Would Return to the MCU

Jonathan EscuderoComment

In a recent interview with Esquire, Robert Downey Jr. addressed the possibility of returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), sparking excitement among fans worldwide. When asked about the prospect of reprising his iconic role as Tony Stark/Iron Man, Downey Jr. responded with enthusiasm and a sense of loyalty to the franchise that propelled him to international stardom.

“Happily. It’s too integral a part of my DNA. That role chose me. And look, I always say, Never, ever bet against Kevin Feige. It is a losing bet. He’s the house. He will always win,” Downey Jr. remarked.

Downey Jr.'s statement underscores his deep connection to the character of Iron Man and the MCU as a whole. For many fans, his portrayal of Tony Stark has become synonymous with the success and popularity of the franchise, making his potential return a highly anticipated event.

The actor's praise for Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige further solidifies the possibility of his comeback, acknowledging Feige's unparalleled leadership and vision that have driven the MCU to unprecedented heights.

As speculation continues to swirl regarding Downey Jr.'s future involvement in the MCU, fans eagerly await any announcements or developments that may indicate his return. Whether it be a cameo appearance or a significant role in future projects, the prospect of seeing Downey Jr. back in action as Iron Man is undoubtedly a thrilling prospect for fans and enthusiasts of the Marvel universe alike.

'MAXXXINE' Trailer Released; Hits Theaters July 5, 2024

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Excitement is brewing among fans as the release date for "Maxxxine," the third entry in the Mia Goth X trilogy, draws near. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ti West.

The star-studded cast assembled for "Maxxxine" is nothing short of impressive, featuring a lineup of talented actors and actresses. Leading the ensemble is Mia Goth, reprising her role as the enigmatic protagonist, alongside Elizabeth Debicki, Moses Sumney, Bobby Cannavale, Halsey, Michelle Monaghan, Giancarlo Esposito, Lily Collins, and Kevin Bacon.

"Maxxxine" is set to hit theaters on July 5, 2024, marking the culmination of the Mia Goth X trilogy. As anticipation continues to build, fans eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in the thrilling world crafted by Ti West and brought to life by an exceptional cast.

Prepare to be swept away on a mesmerizing journey filled with intrigue, suspense, and unforgettable moments as "Maxxxine" arrives in theaters this summer. Don't miss your chance to witness the epic conclusion to one of cinema's most captivating trilogies.

Watch the full trailer for “Maxxxine” below.

Ayelet Zurer to Return as Vanessa Fisk in ‘DAREDEVIL BORN AGAIN’

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have reason to celebrate as it's been announced that Ayelet Zurer will be reprising her role as Vanessa Fisk in the upcoming series, 'DAREDEVIL BORN AGAIN'. This news comes as a delightful surprise for viewers who have been eagerly anticipating the return of this beloved character.

Zurer's return to the role of Vanessa Fisk holds special significance, particularly considering that she was previously recast for the series before a creative reboot occurred. While details surrounding the decision to recast and subsequently bring back Zurer remain unclear, fans are undoubtedly thrilled to see her back in the role she portrayed with such depth and nuance.

Vanessa Fisk, the wife of notorious crime boss Wilson Fisk, aka Kingpin, played a pivotal role in the Daredevil comics storyline 'Born Again'. Her character's complex relationship with Fisk and her influence on his actions added layers of intrigue and drama to the narrative, making her return a highly anticipated moment for fans of the series.

The decision to bring back Zurer speaks to the commitment of the creative team behind 'DAREDEVIL BORN AGAIN' to honor the Netflix shows and provide fans with an authentic and compelling continuation of the previously cancelled series.

Robert Kirkman Sheds Light on THOSE Invincible S2 Finale Cameos

Jonathan EscuderoComment

The Season 2 Part 2 finale of "Invincible," titled "I Thought You Were Stronger," delivered a gripping showdown between Mark/Invincible (voiced by Steven Yeun) and the multiverse-traveling villain Angstrom Levy (voiced by Sterling K. Brown). The episode sees Mark rushing home to rescue his kidnapped mother Debbie (voiced by Sandra Oh) and baby alien half-brother Oliver from Angstrom's clutches.

Throughout the intense battle, Angstrom continuously outmaneuvers Mark by opening portals to different dimensions, keeping the hero at bay. However, amidst the chaos, viewers were treated to several eye-catching cameo appearances from alternate-universe superheroes and pop culture references.

One standout moment pays homage to the original "Invincible" comic, featuring a web-slinging hero named Agent Spider (voiced by Josh Keaton) battling a tentacled villain known as Omnipotus. Keaton's casting as Agent Spider adds a nostalgic touch for fans, given his previous role as Spider-Man in animated series like "The Spectacular Spider-Man."

Kirkman tells Variety: It was just trying to figure out a way to keep that moment somewhat intact from the comics. It seemed like something that would be a fun and surprising way to do it. Amazon legal, painstakingly, was like, “No, the costume can’t be that color. We gotta get away from this and that.” There were a lot of eyes on that scene. We wanted to find an actor who had done Spider-Man before. [Supervising director] Dan Duncan came in immediately and was like, “Josh Keaton needs to do it. ‘Spectacular Spider Man’ is a great series.” He had worked on it and said Josh was great. He seemed like the best possible choice because it’s animation to animation. It seemed like it would be a fun thing. That said, he’s not playing Spider-Man. That’s Agent Spider. There might be some similarities, but I think Josh’s nuanced performance as Agent Spider is completely different than the way he played Spider-Man in “Spectacular Spider-Man.” But who knows? My opinion may be somewhat biased


Additionally, the episode includes nods to iconic characters such as Batman, with Mark encountering a cape-wearing, bat-themed superhero off-camera. Creator Robert Kirkman explains that while the scene may imply a connection to Batman, it was never their intention to directly reference the character.

Listen, I think that sequence might seem to imply a certain thing that isn’t there. That’s not Gotham City. That’s not Batman. That’s a completely different bat character that Mark is referring to. If the audience is inferring a certain thing from it, I don’t have control over that. The audience gets to take from it what they will, but it was never our intention to imply anything remotely close to the Batman character


Another surprising cameo comes in the form of a sniper rifle from the popular video game "Fortnite," appearing in Mark's hands during a pivotal moment. Kirkman reveals that the inclusion of the weapon was done in collaboration with Epic Games, adding an official Easter egg to the episode.

That was all done in cooperation with Epic Games, and it’s the actual model for the Dragon’s Breath sniper rifle. That was all referenced and approved and seemed like a fun nod since he’s in the “Fortnite” game.

Maybe Angstrom sent him there and everything in the game is canon and he’s coming out with a gun. That seemed like a fun, official Easter egg we could do. I was writing the episode, or was about to start writing the episode, when I had my initial talks with Donald Mustard, who was the creative lead on “Fortnite” but has since left the company.

He was really on board to do something in the show that references it and help push it through on their side. It was kind of an organic thing that happened because we were talking about Invincible being in the game at the same time as I was writing the episode.


Despite the abundance of Marvel, DC, and gaming references, Kirkman clarifies that there were no direct communications with Marvel or DC regarding the cameos. Instead, the legal departments at Amazon ensured that all references were within acceptable parameters.

Overall, the Season 2 Part 2 finale of "Invincible" delighted fans with its action-packed narrative and clever nods to comic book and gaming culture. As the series continues to captivate audiences, viewers eagerly anticipate what surprises await in future episodes.

Olivia Wilde to Direct Avengelyne comic book adaptation; Margot Robbie to Produce

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Deadline's The Dish has stirred up excitement with reports of a potentially major project in the works: a film centered around Avengelyne, an angelic warrior fighting against evil forces.

Helming this project is none other than Olivia Wilde, known for her directorial prowess showcased in films like "Don't Worry Darling" and "Booksmart."

The storyline is based on the iconic comic book creation of Rob Liefeld, the mastermind behind Deadpool.

Backing this ambitious venture are powerhouse producers, including LuckyChap, the production company co-founded by Margot Robbie alongside Tom Ackerley and Josey McNamara, as well as Simon Kinberg. While initial rumors suggested Robbie might also star in the film, sources close to her deny this speculation. Nevertheless, the project is attracting attention from top-tier talent, with a prominent A-list writer reportedly circling to adapt the screenplay.

Avengelyne is an angel who fights the forces of evil and often finds herself face-to-face with demons and monsters.

She was the most feared warrior in Heaven’s Warhost, having single-handedly broken into Pandemonium, the outer fortress of Hell, to confront the Devil himself.

She is a fallen angel, banished from Heaven by God after being tricked into questioning his love for humans.

Avengelyne was stripped of all her angelic abilities, other than her great strength and her blood, which, once extracted from her body, could be used as a weapon or a miracle once empowered by quoting verses from the Bible.

Avengelyne uses her powers to fight demons on earth and is being groomed to be humankind’s last hope in a coming Armageddon.

In the past, Liefeld has explained his heroine this way: “Avengelyne resonated so powerfully with the audience because her story of redemption is one that is so relatable. A fallen angel, sentenced to redeem herself by serving humanity, Earth is a foreign environment to her, she must adapt in order to save herself as well as mankind. Her dilemma provides humor amidst the larger plot engine driving her journey.

Netflix Live Action Avatar Last Airbender Loses Showrunner

Jonathan EscuderoComment

The live-action adaptation of the beloved Nickelodeon series "Avatar: The Last Airbender" on Netflix is experiencing a shift in leadership.

According to Variety, Albert Kim, the original show developer and Season 1 showrunner, is stepping down.

In his place, Christine Boylan and Jabbar Raisani will take the reins as executive producers moving forward. This news comes as Netflix announces the renewal of the series for two additional seasons, concluding with Season 3.

Boylan, who previously served as co-executive producer on Season 1, brings a wealth of experience to the table. She has worked on hit shows like the Netflix-Marvel series "The Punisher," Amazon's "Citadel," and Freeform's "Cloak and Dagger." In addition to her television work, Boylan is an accomplished playwright and comic book writer for DC, Marvel, BOOM Studios, and Tokyopop.

On the other hand, Raisani, known for his VFX work on popular shows like "Lost in Space," "Stranger Things," and "Game of Thrones," has also directed episodes of "Lost in Space" and "The Last Airbender." His expertise in visual effects and directing adds a dynamic element to the creative team.

Despite stepping down as showrunner, Kim will continue as an executive producer for Seasons 2 and 3. He expressed his desire to explore new opportunities after the extensive development process on "Last Airbender." Kim has signed a deal with Disney to work as an executive producer on the "Percy Jackson" series while also developing new projects for the company.

The live-action adaptation of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" has already made waves with its first season, featuring a talented cast including Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio, Ian Ousley, Dallas Liu, Ken Leung, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, and Daniel Dae Kim. Alongside Albert Kim and Raisani, Dan Lin, Lindsey Liberatore, and Michael Goi serve as executive producers on behalf of Rideback Productions.

Goi, who directed the first two episodes, and Raisani, who directed episodes three and four, contribute to the series' visual and storytelling prowess. Roseanne Liang and Jet Wilkinson also directed episodes, rounding out a diverse and talented team behind the scenes.

As Netflix's live-action adaptation of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" enters its next phase, fans can anticipate new creative directions and exciting developments under the leadership of Boylan and Raisani. With the series' renewal and seasoned talent at the helm, the world of Avatar is primed for further exploration and captivating storytelling.

How Sudden Creative Changes Might Affect Daredevil: Born Again

ComicBook CliqueComment

Daredevil: Born Again has been through a bit of a development rollercoaster. The series parted ways with head writers Chris Ord and Matt Corman last October while the production was shut down amid the SAG-AFTRA strike. Marvel also released the directors for the remaining episodes of the season as it decided to take “Born Again” in a new creative direction despite half of the series’ 18-episode order already being shot. Only some elements of pre-existing material is expected to be used in the final cut of the show.

Dario Scardapane, who wrote and executive produced Bernthal’s “The Punisher” series, stepped in to serve as the new “Born Again” showrunner a few weeks after Ord and Corman’s exit. The duo are still being credited as executive producers. Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead — who directed on Marvel’s “Moon Knight” and “Loki” Season 2 — were added as directors. It’s unclear whether or not the original 18-episode order remains.

BREAKING NEWS: Julia Garner has been cast as a Silver Surfer in ‘FANTASTIC FOUR’.

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Deadline reports Julia Garner has been cast as a Silver Surfer in ‘FANTASTIC FOUR’.

She will reportedly play Shalla-Bal, who was the Silver Surfer’s first love in the comics. Shalla-Bal appears as a Silver Sufer in Marvel's EARTH X comic series.

Shalla-Bal was the lover of Norrin Radd, the Silver Surfer. Following the destruction of the Surfer's former master Galactus, the Surfer realised that Galactus had been necessary to the cosmic balance. Together with the High Evolutionary, they convinced Franklin Richards to allow the Evolutionary to use his equipment to advance Franklin's mutation, allowing him to assume the role of Galactus.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow Finds Director

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Deadline reports Cruella and I Tonya filmmaker Craig Gillespie is in talks to direct Supergirl for Warner Bros. DC Studios.

The plan is for DC to shoot the movie for Q4 after they’ve completed James Gunn’s Superman which is shooting in Georgia for a July 11, 2025 theatrical release. DC Bosses Gunn and Peter Safran are producing. DC EVP Chantal Nong is executive.

House of the Dragon‘s Milly Alcock will star in the role of Supergirl, and she’ll appear in another DC project before making her big screen debut as the Woman of Tomorrow.

Supergirl is based on Tom King’s 2022 comic book series, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow on which Bilquis Evely illustrated. Ana Nogueira adapted the comic book for the big screen. If you want to know how hot a comic book it is, you’ll find it upfront at the Barnes and Noble at the Grove for purchase.

Matrix 5 in the Works: Drew Goddard to Direct

Jonathan EscuderoComment

‘THE MATRIX 5’ is in the works with Drew Goddard set to direct. Lana Wachowski as Executive Producer

Warner Bros announced that a fifth “Matrix” movie is in development. It’ll be the first installment without Lana or Lily Wachowski as directors.

Instead, “The Martian” screenwriter Drew Goddard will handle filmmaking duties. He will also write the script and produce with his partner at Goddard Textiles, Sarah Esberg.

Lana Wachowski, who helmed the most recent “Matrix” installment, 2021’s “Resurrections,” is attached as an executive producer.

“Drew came to Warner Bros. with a new idea that we all believe would be an incredible way to continue the Matrix world, by both honoring what Lana and Lilly began over 25 years ago and offering a unique perspective based on his own love of the series and characters,” Ehrman said in a statement. “The entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery is thrilled for Drew to be making this new ‘Matrix’ film, adding his vision to the cinematic canon the Wachowskis’ spent a quarter of a century building here at the studio.”

Goddard was nominated for an Oscar for writing “The Martian,” the sci-fi adaptation directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon. His other feature film credits include writing “Cloverfield” and “World War Z” and serving as writer-director on “The Cabin in the Woods” and “Bad Times at the El Royale.”

Godzilla and Goku Share a Connection

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Jared Krichevsky, the Lead Creature Designer on Godzilla X Kong: the New Empire, revealed that Godzilla's Powered Up Pink Form is based off of Goku's Kaioken from the Dragon Ball series.

This was revealed during an "Ask Me Almost Anything" session on his Twitter/X account (@MonsterMash042)

Kirsten Dunst Says She Was Never Asked to Be In Spider-Man: No Way Home

Jonathan EscuderoComment

In an interview with GQ, Kirsten Dunst talked about her current goals and aspirations for this part of her career.

When the topic of superhero films came up, she was asked if she would’ve joined Marvel's Spider-Man: No Way Home:

“No, no. I would have. It would be funny to be like, OK, let’s take Tobey [Maguire] and I and do it in a weird indie way where it’s like a different kind of superhero film,” she says. “Like how they did that movie Chronicle. It could be cool.”

The Richest Celebrity in the World Is....

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Forbes magazine has named George Lucas the richest celebrity in the world.

The iconic director, 79, tops the annual Forbes list of celebrity billionaires with a $5.5 Billion fortune.

The American filmmaker tops an impressive list that includes close friend and fellow new wave director Steven Spielberg, basketball legend Michael Jordan, talk show queen Oprah Winfrey and rapper Jay-Z.

Sam Raimi Wants to Direct 'AVENGERS: SECRET WARS'.

Jonathan EscuderoComment

During an interview with Screengeek, Sam Raimi addressed rumors surrounding his involvement with Marvel’s “AVENGERS: SECRET WARS”:

“I love 90% of the Marvel heroes that I’ve read in the great Stan Lee Marvel Universe comic books. I would love to work with Marvel again. I hope they had a good experience with me. They haven’t asked me yet. I hope they do.”