Los Angeles, California – After a series of setbacks, Marvel Studios continues to face challenges in bringing the vampire thriller Blade to the big screen. The project has encountered multiple hurdles, including the recent departure of director Yann Demange, marking the second time a director has left the production. Sources suggest that frustrations have mounted on both sides due to the prolonged development process of Blade.
Academy Award-winning actor Mahershala Ali, who has been attached to the project since 2019, has reportedly expressed increasing frustration with the delays. Ali handpicked Demange after the initial director, Bassam Tariq, exited the project in September 2022. Marvel presented Ali with a list of potential directors, but after concerns arose about their experience, Ali conducted his own search for a suitable filmmaker.
Ali’s influence on the project has been notable, with sources indicating that he envisions Blade as his equivalent of Black Panther. The film had been gearing up for a shoot in May 2023 under Demange’s direction, with writer Nic Pizzolatto brought on board to finalize the script. However, the production was halted due to industry strikes, causing further delays and complications for the film.
Unlike other Marvel projects that were able to resume production after initial setbacks, Blade saw major shifts in its cast and creative team. Notable actors such as Delroy Lindo and Aaron Pierre departed the project, leading to further rewrites and revisions. The studio has since enlisted additional writers, including Michael Green and Eric Pearson, in an effort to move the project forward.
The long and tumultuous journey of Blade has sparked speculation and commentary, with memes circulating on social media about the film’s prolonged development. Even original Blade actor Wesley Snipes has weighed in on the situation, highlighting the challenges faced by the production.
Despite these obstacles, Marvel remains committed to bringing Blade to audiences. The studio’s approach emphasizes careful development and planning, ensuring that the final product meets the high standards set by the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Plans are underway to complete the script and identify a new director to guide the project towards production.
Marvel chief Kevin Feige holds a special regard for Blade, recognizing its importance in shaping the early days of the MCU. Feige views the character as a valuable addition to the superhero genre, drawing inspiration from the success of the original Blade film released in 1998.
The journey to bring Blade to the big screen has been filled with challenges, but Marvel’s dedication to the project remains unwavering. With a new script in the works and potential directors on the horizon, fans can anticipate the eventual debut of Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.