It’s been a rough few weeks for the production ofBlade. Earlier this month,director Bassim Tariq exited the project, with reports suggesting trouble with the script and unhappiness from star Mahershala Ali. In addition, according toThe Hollywood Reporter, Marvel is reportedly shutting down pre-production on the project currently taking place in Atlanta.Bladewas initially set to begin filming in November, however, the timetable for the entire project is delayed as the studio seeks a new director.According to the report, Marvel is hoping to restart the production sometime in 2023, meaning it’s doubtful thatBladewill make it to its original Jun 12, 2025, release date. “They want to really get it right,” one source tells THR, as the film is one of the most highly anticipated movies in the MCU catalog going forward. After Tariq left the film, Marvel conducted a broad search for a new director and simultaneously went over other aspects of the movie that may not have been working. So while many believed a new director would quickly be announced, it may be some time before we find out who helms the project.Related:Blade: Directors Marvel Should Consider NextBeau DeMayo, whose previous work includesStar Trek: Strange New Worlds,The Witcher, andMoon Knight,has signed on to write and rework aspects of the script. DeMayo is making a name for himself at Marvel Studios, as he has also found himself writing forX-Men ‘97. Unfortunately, it seems a lengthy delay forBladeis imminent, and audiences likely won’t be seeing the beloved vampire hunter until sometime in 2024.
Mahershala Ali Has Reportedly Been Frustrated With theBladeProcess
Following Tariq’s exit fromBlade, reports began to surface,citing the behind-the-scenes frustrationfrom leading man Mahershala Ali.According to Jeff Sneider, an industry insider, the script was only 90 pages long, with two “lackluster” action sequences. Additionally, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige was believed to be too busy with other projects to help withBlade, leading to the less-than-desirable script.Sneider weighed inon the THR director report, stating one “industry notable thinks Ali should drop out,” with hopes of being Magneto in a newX-Menfilm.
Related:Blade Brings on Black Panther’s Costume Designer, Ruth E. Carter
Losing Mahershala Ali would be a massive blow toBlade, although there’s no concrete evidence to support the rumors. The actor, who has 2 Oscar wins forGreen Book,andMoonlightis considered the perfect casting for the vampire hunter role. Ali would be taking over from Wesley Snipes, who previously portrayed the character in a trilogy released in the early 2000s. For now, fans will have to wait for news regarding a new director and hope Ali continues with the project despite the messy start of production.
