With the growing success of Marvel’s animated projects like ‘What If…?’ and ‘X-Men ’97,’ discussions about expanding the MCU into animated theatrical releases are gaining momentum.
According to Brad Winderbaum, Head of Marvel Television and Animation, the studio has contemplated the idea. However, the main focus remains on finding the perfect story for the big screen instead of rushing anything.
Brad Winderbaum Wants To Make A Statement With The Animated Film
Marvel Studios has seen considerable success in its animated ventures. Series like ‘What If…?’, ‘X-Men ‘97’, and ‘I Am Groot’ have showcased Marvel’s creative ability to explore different storytelling formats. So, fans have naturally begun wondering: could Marvel take this a step further and bring an animated feature to theaters?
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Additionally, Sony’s groundbreaking Spider-Verse movies have set a high bar, proving that animated superhero films can achieve both critical and commercial success. However, those films operate outside of the official MCU, leaving room for Marvel Studios to craft its own animated legacy.
When asked about the possibility of an MCU animated movie, Brad Winderbaum confirmed that the idea had been discussed. “We’ve talked about it, but it’s really about having a property that feels like a film,” he explained in an interview with Geekcentric. “A film, to me, is a statement. It’s two hours to say something meaningful to the world. TV, on the other hand, is a longer form and more conversational with the audience.”
Moreover, one fan-favorite character that could be a contender for such a project is Jeff the Land Shark. Winderbaum, when asked about Jeff’s MCU prospects, hinted at a future appearance. “You know it’s coming,” he said cryptically. “I can’t say when, I can’t say where, but we’re all Jeff fans around here.”
Krysten Ritter’s Jessica Jones’ Possible MCU Revival
As Marvel continues to build new stories in both animation and live-action, fans of Netflix’s Marvel universe are holding out hope for the return of beloved characters. Chief among them is Jessica Jones, played by Krysten Ritter in her self-titled series. Moreover, Marvel has already begun to integrate Netflix characters into the larger MCU.
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Additionally, Ritter addressed the possibility of reprising her role during an interview with ComicBook. When told that Brad Winderbaum had singled out Jessica Jones as the Netflix character he most wanted to see in the MCU, Ritter didn’t hide her excitement. “Brad Winderbaum said that? That’s incredible!” Ritter said. “He’s the guy who makes the decisions, right? Let’s do it. I’m ready!”
Winderbaum, when asked to respond, didn’t confirm any plans but made his admiration for the character abundantly clear. “Jessica Jones was one of the highlights of the Netflix era,” he said. “Krysten embodies that character in a way that’s unmatched. Wouldn’t it be amazing to see her back on screen?” Brad has been vocal about his appreciation for Jessica Jones. So, her comeback is very much possible.
