The news that Joe and Anthony Russo, the visionary duo behind ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’, would return to direct two highly anticipated ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ was a dream come true for fans.
However, the brothers have largely stayed away from the MCU since 2019’s Endgame. So, what inspired them to come back?
Russo Brothers Believe The ‘Secret Wars’ Storyline Has A Lot Of Potential
In an interview with Empire, the Russo Brothers revealed the story behind their decision. For the Russos, stepping back into the MCU wasn’t an easy decision. As Anthony Russo put it, “Endgame was the end,” marking the conclusion of an era that spanned over a decade of storytelling.
Related: Scarlett Johansson To Return As Black Widow For ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ And ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’
“It took a little time for us to begin to think about it as something other than an end,” he explained. Moreover, over the years, the duo maintained close ties with Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige and Lou D’Esposito, occasionally brainstorming ideas. However, nothing felt compelling enough to warrant a return, until now.
The spark for ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ came unexpectedly. “We ended up stumbling upon an idea that activated all of us,” Anthony said. “You couldn’t see it coming until it came, and once it came, it was like, ‘Well, that’s a story we need to tell.'” Joe Russo recalled the moment he pitched the concept.
“I remember calling Steve McFeely (Marvel writer) and said, ‘Hey, crazy idea. What do you think if we all go back and do Secret Wars?’ He told me, ‘F**k no. Absolutely not,’ and hung up. But the next morning, he called at 7:30 and said, ‘Alright, I have an idea.’” Their excitement stemmed from the challenge of reimagining the Secret Wars comic storyline for the MCU.
The multiverse-driven tale offers endless possibilities. It also allows the return of beloved characters and the introduction of new ones making it almost a perfect fit. “It’s the kind of story that makes you feel like a kid again,” Anthony shared. “There’s so much creative potential here.“
‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Will Mark The Return Of Several Iconic Actors
The upcoming ‘Avengers: Doomsday‘ will set the stage for ‘Secret Wars’ while marking a dramatic shift in the MCU. Originally conceived as ‘Avengers: The Kang Dynasty’, the film underwent significant changes due to Jonathan Majors’ legal troubles. Marvel pivoted from Kang the Conqueror as the central villain.
In case you missed it: Elizabeth Olsen Is Set To Return As Scarlet Witch In ‘Avengers: Doomsday’
To replace the character, they brought in a new threat: Doctor Doom, portrayed by none other than Robert Downey Jr. While details about Doom’s portrayal remain under wraps, Downey Jr.’s return is enough to make any Marvel fan excited.
Additionally, Chris Evans will also return to the MCU in a villainous role. Other confirmed characters include Benedict Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange, Anthony Mackie’s Captain America, and the Fantastic Four, who will make their Avengers debut.
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man, Deadpool, Wolverine, and Pepper Potts return hasn’t been officially announced but is widely expected to appear. So, it’s safe to say, the stakes for Doomsday couldn’t be higher. “The heart of these films has always been the characters,” Joe said. “If we can make you laugh, cry, and cheer all in one movie, we’ve done our job.”
