10 Essential New Year’s Resolutions for Marvel’s MCU in 2025 and Beyond

Even as the most successful franchise in cinematic history, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is not without its challenges. As it navigates the ongoing Multiverse Saga, the MCU has encountered several pitfalls following the monumental success of Avengers: Endgame. Nevertheless, the franchise has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to deliver box office triumphs, boasting several of its most lucrative films in recent years.

With an exciting slate of upcoming releases, the MCU has much to look forward to. However, certain adjustments are crucial for ensuring the franchise concludes this saga on a strong note. Here, we outline ten indispensable resolutions for the MCU in 2025 and beyond.

10. Reduce Production Budgets Across Films and TV

Costly Productions Leading to Financial Losses

In recent years, excessive production budgets have posed significant issues for the MCU. While the pandemic has certainly played a role in escalating costs, films like The Marvels shouldn’t carry a staggering $270 million price tag, and it’s difficult to justify a nearly $300 million budget for an Ant-Man project. This unsustainable financial model can result in films that either fail to recover costs or underperform critically.

Moreover, history has shown that increased budgets don’t necessarily correlate with better quality. For instance, while the series Agatha All Along emerged as the least expensive MCU production, Secret Invasion was the most costly—but only one of these series received positive acclaim, indicating a clear disconnect.

9. Assemble the Young Avengers

The Young Avengers are Ready to Unite

One of the MCU’s significant opportunities lies in finally bringing together the Young Avengers. Phase 4 introduced crucial characters, setting the stage for this younger superhero team. Now, with nearly all pieces in place except for Tommy, it’s the perfect moment to unite these heroes under one banner.

The success of a potential Young Avengers movie would resonate well with fans, providing a youthful dynamic reminiscent of Marvel’s equivalent to the Teen Titans, while also aligning with other successful ensemble teams like the Thunderbolts and Guardians of the Galaxy.

8. Achieve Another Billion-Dollar Hit

Centering Hits Like Spider-Man and Deadpool

During Phase Three, the MCU seemed invincible, with numerous films crossing the $1 billion mark. Since Avengers: Endgame, only three films have managed to achieve this, with two contributions from Spider-Man and one featuring Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds reprising their roles.

The upcoming The Fantastic Four: First Steps will serve as a critical gauge for the franchise’s box office potential. Should this movie approach the coveted billion-dollar milestone, it could signal a revitalization for the MCU’s financial landscape as it prepares to intertwine with the X-Men.

7. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Impact of Quantity on Fan Response

The MCU has faced criticism for prioritizing output over quality, leading to mixed receptions for numerous projects. As the franchise expands into a plethora of TV productions, maintaining a coherent focus on quality is essential.

While Marvel Studios may release at least six TV series in 2025, it’s imperative they ensure the storytelling quality remains high. The aim should be to deliver compelling narratives that resonate deeply with fans, rather than saturating the market with subpar content.

6. Expand Daredevil: Born Again into Multiple Seasons

Daredevil: A Fan Favorite in Need of Expansion

Daredevil: Born Again is poised to be a pivotal series for the MCU, building on the foundation set by its predecessor on Netflix. A longer format would allow for deeper character development and a richer narrative experience, ensuring viewers become fully invested in Matt Murdock’s journey.

5. Fully Develop Doctor Doom

Doctor Doom: An Essential Thanos-Level Villain

The casting of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in upcoming films may have sparked considerable debate. Regardless, he faces the critical task of embodying a character who must be exceptional to rival past villains like Thanos. If executed poorly, his portrayal could be perceived as a misstep, while a strong performance could redeem the choice and elevate the character’s importance.

4. Resolve Blade Movie Issues

Long Wait for Mahershala Ali’s Blade

Since announcing Mahershala Ali as Blade in 2019, the film has faced ongoing setbacks with multiple director and writer changes. This uncertainty is particularly frustrating given Ali’s star power and potential for the role. The MCU’s current challenge lies in solidifying a clear vision for Blade, ensuring that this highly anticipated project finally comes to fruition.

3. Introduce More Recurring Villains

Loki: A Model for Villain Longevity

The MCU has seen some memorable villains, but many have only appeared once, lacking the development necessary to resonate with audiences. Characters like Loki, Thanos, and Kingpin have thrived thanks to their recurring appearances across multiple projects.

In 2024, DC’s decision to explore Penguin’s character beyond a singular film demonstrated the benefits of nurturing villain arcs over time. Marvel should adopt this strategy for characters like Galactus and Doctor Doom, deepening their narratives for greater eventual impact.

2. Deliver a Quality Fantastic Four Adaptation

Marvel’s First Family Deserves a Quality Adaptation

The upcoming The Fantastic Four: First Steps is arguably one of the MCU’s most crucial films set for release in 2025. With an experienced cast and a unique retro-futuristic setting, the project has vast potential. However, a misstep here could delay future adaptations of Marvel’s First Family, making it essential for this film to succeed.

1. Make Avengers: Secret Wars the Biggest Marvel Movie Ever

Secret Wars Should Celebrate Marvel’s Rich Cinematic History

Following in the monumental footsteps of Avengers: Endgame, Avengers: Secret Wars should aim to deliver a similar spectacle while elevating the narrative scope. This film has the potential to integrate decades of Marvel cinematic history, assembling an unparalleled cast of iconic characters.

As the concluding installment of the Multiverse Saga approaches, it’s crucial that Avengers: Secret Wars not only encapsulates the grandeur of what has come before, but effectively sets the stage for the future, marking a pivotal moment in Marvel’s ongoing journey.

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