Has the MCU ‘Earned’ AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY and SECRET WARS?

by

This article may reveal plot points from “Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps”. To steer clear of these spoilers, consider bookmarking this page for a read following your viewing of the movie.

In late 2023, Marvel Studios dismissed Jonathan Majors following his court-decided domestic violence case. A while later, they disclosed who’d replace Kang as the main antagonist. At the MCU’s Hall H panel in San Diego Comic-Con, Robert Downey Jr. unveiled Victor von Doom as his character. One year after this revelation, his character made his entrance in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The end-credits scene was thrilling, though it wasn’t entirely unexpected by many. It also promises an immediate impact. With just one more movie to go before Robert Downey Jr.’s Doom appears in Avengers: Doomsday, fans are eagerly waiting. However, despite the buzz surrounding a renowned actor, two highly anticipated MCU films, and the upcoming epic showdown, the next Avengers movie doesn’t seem to have fully earned the hype just yet.

In the film “The Avengers,” Loki, who had previously been established as a formidable adversary in Thor, attempted to overpower Earth. However, the movie wasn’t solely focused on thwarting this super villain; it was equally about uniting Earth’s strongest heroes. Having a compelling antagonist like Loki only enhanced its appeal.

Back then, when The Avengers was released, it was merely the sixth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The excitement and speculation surrounding it were dramatically different compared to today. Even seasoned movie buffs doubted if a superhero ensemble on such a grand scale would succeed. Unlike the first X-Men movie, viewers needed prior knowledge of all the characters from their individual films before watching this one.

The concerns about Marvel taking a significant risk with their venture were unwarranted. After all, even though The Avengers may not have been an absolute surefire hit, it was clear that the Marvel Cinematic Universe had strategically arranged its elements to maximize its potential for success.

The movie “The Avengers” introduced a crucial element for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) by debuting Thanos on screen. Initially appearing as an intriguing, menacing, powerful character in a post-credits scene at the end, Thanos made a significant impact in “Guardians of the Galaxy” and even featured his daughters there. This movie, initially perceived as a risky choice before its release, also highlighted the significance of the Infinity Stones. Subsequently, Thanos was seen again in an end-credits scene for “Age of Ultron,” hinting at his master plan. These events eventually led to the execution of this grand scheme in “Infinity War” and “Endgame.

Over the course of ten years, the Marvel Cinematic Universe gradually developed Thanos into the ultimate final adversary, starting from his debut in “The Avengers.” The 19th film, “Infinity War,” served as a pivotal moment, introducing a formidable movie villain who concluded the Infinity Saga on a fulfilling note. The climactic defeat of Thanos was a well-deserved outcome, reflecting the considerable effort invested in the MCU’s storyline. The anticipation for Thanos’ appearance was worth the wait, and when he finally emerged, he lived up to our expectations.

In contrast to the gradual unveiling of Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the character Doctor Doom was initially introduced more explicitly and his presence was acknowledged earlier in the series. The debut of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” was not only our first glimpse of him, but also the first time the MCU ever hinted at his existence, symbolized by the vacant chair for Latveria, the nation he governs. Remarkably, just as suddenly, Doom is poised to assume a role similar to Thanos within the franchise.

Things didn’t need to turn out this way; they shouldn’t have been like this. Victor von Doom is often considered one of Marvel’s greatest villains ever. He may even be unparalleled in his greatness. Disney has held the rights to the character since their merger with Fox in 2019. Despite producing numerous films and TV shows since 2020, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has failed to develop any storylines involving Doom up until now.

Indeed—indeed—part of the reason for Doctor Doom’s absence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) can be attributed to off-screen complications. Originally, Jonathan Majors’ Kang the Conqueror was intended to be the ultimate antagonist for the MCU’s Multiverse Saga. The film titled The Kang Dynasty, which was initially announced as the fifth Avengers movie, would have showcased this character. Marvel is known for weaving intricate narratives over extended periods, and they were investing time and resources to develop Kang and his variants into a threat on par with Thanos. Majors first appeared in Loki season one, reappeared in season two, and was the villain of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. Had there been no termination of Majors’ contract, it is highly likely that he would have made further appearances before his first Avengers film. However, Major’s dismissal doesn’t absolve the MCU from its narrative missteps regarding Doctor Doom.

In March 2023, Majors was arrested. However, his conviction and dismissal from Marvel didn’t occur until December that year. From this point onward, it became clear to many that he might be leaving the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Starting in March, any MCU series or film could have included references to Latveria as a precaution, in case the MCU opted for a pivot rather than recasting the character.

In a storytelling perspective, it would have been clearer and simpler to understand Kang’s altered appearance after his defeat in “Quantumania.” However, it’s understandable why Disney, with its family-focused approach, chose not to delve into the character’s transformation from a business standpoint. Nevertheless, this situation highlights the need for Marvel to anticipate potential changes and be prepared for them.

It’s possible someone might have shared plans to visit a university called The State University in Hegeman, New York, which would have been perfect for our kind of website to delve into. At the minimum, there should have been some reference to Doom before “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”. Alternatively, Marvel Studios could have pushed back the release of “Avengers 5” even further to allow for a more thorough development of Doctor Doom and the franchise as a whole. The lack of this action is on Marvel, too.

Since the release of “Avengers: Endgame,” the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) seems to have lost its direction. With a significant emphasis on supplying content for Disney+, the franchise has departed from the engaging and influential serialized narrative that it initially thrived upon. The last two phases appear aimless and lack cohesion or rewarding conclusions. Many films and series have been produced without leaving an impactful impression. Previously exciting end-credits scenes now seem insignificant, lacking the anticipation they once provided for future installments. Despite Shang-Chi being a character who could have anchored an “Avengers” film during the early days of MCU, there’s been no sign of him in any subsequent productions since his 2021 movie release.

For some time now, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) seems far removed from its original essence. It lacks the same energy, both as an influential cultural phenomenon and a financial powerhouse. Previously, movies were sure-fire blockbusters, and shows were eagerly anticipated events. However, it’s not that the MCU is dying, but rather evolving into something different. The recruitment of Robert Downey Jr. and the planned introduction of Doctor Doom are attempts to rejuvenate the MCU. Marvel Studios, renowned for their intelligence, have previously crafted and maintained a cinematic universe that seemed unattainable. They aim to restore the MCU to its former glory, hoping that Downey’s portrayal of Doctor Doom will be the key. Yet, they seem to be deviating from the approach they know works best, resulting in a Victor von Doom with a physique more akin to Ultron than Thanos.

In my humble opinion, the Thanos saga was a multi-course banquet that left me utterly satisfied. However, the entrance of Doctor Doom seems more like a hastily microwaved leftover from Tony Stark and Bruce Banner’s kitchen – it feels as though Marvel is scrambling to serve us what we crave without much concern for how they’ve prepared the dish.

It’s almost certain that Marvel’s grand Doom dinner will still be tasty, but it may not live up to its full potential due to the fact that Doctor Doom’s arrival didn’t seem well-deserved or properly set up. Despite the excitement of his presence, something seems missing in the buildup.

Mikey Walsh works as a staff writer for TopMob. He patiently waits for his second marshmallow. You can keep up with him on Bluesky at @burgermike, or wherever people are rating the Targaryen kings.

Read More

2025-07-29 00:05