‘Blade’ reboot hits another snag as second director exits

The ‘Blade’ reboot within the Marvel Cinematic Universe is encountering significant delays, with the film losing its second director. 

Announced in July 2019, Mahershala Ali's Blade has had a protracted journey to production. Initially, Bassam Tariq was set to direct, but he departed in September 2022.

According to The Wrap, Marvel Studios and director Yann Demange have parted ways ahead of the film’s production start. Sources from The Wrap indicate that Demange's departure was "entirely amicable." As of now, neither Marvel Studios nor Disney have commented on the report.

This development raises further questions about the movie's future. Blade has been the subject of speculation and jokes about its potential cancellation, especially since it has been nearly five years since its announcement. Despite the setbacks, the film's cast remains attached, and it still holds a November 2025 release date, though another delay is not out of the question.

Marvel Studios is reportedly searching for a new director to replace Demange. The studio appears committed to not rushing the production, emphasising quality over speed. The Wrap notes that whether the current script will be used is uncertain, but Eric Pearson, who wrote Marvel's upcoming ‘Fantastic Four,’ is now working on the latest draft.

If ‘Blade’ were to be cancelled, Ali’s role in the MCU might still continue, potentially in other MCU projects like ‘Midnight Sons’. For now, fans await further updates from Marvel Studios.