The Marvel Cinematic Universe reboot of Blade may have found its director.
According to The Cosmic Circus, citing "reliable sources," Eric Brooks' MCU debut could be helmed by Elegance Bratton. An up-and-coming filmmaker, Bratton has credits on projects such as Growing Up, The Inspection, Pier Kids and My House. It's worth noting that Cosmic Circus Editor-in-Chief Lizzie Hill was not able to confirm that Marvel Studios has signed the new director but notes that she is still confident that the information is accurate. At the time of writing, Marvel Studios has yet to make an official announcement regarding Blade's director.
Many fans of Marvel's iconic vampire hunter were disappointed when the MCU film was delayed due to reported issues regarding the script. The previous director, Bassam Tariq, departed the project in September 2022 due to "continued shifts in [the] production schedule," but is confirmed to still be serving as an executive producer. The film's script is rumored to be undergoing a major overhaul under the guidance of X-Men '97 writer Beau DeMayo who is working alongside star Mahershala Ali. It's currently unknown when the movie will begin production but Marvel Studios has confirmed that it's aiming for a 2024 release.
The Future of Blade
While Blade's director has yet to be confirmed, many Marvel fans were pushing for Werewolf By Night's Michael Giacchino to helm the project. Despite the enthusiasm, the filmmaker ruled himself out of the running, noting that Eric Brooks was not a character he sees in his future. "I mean, look, I love Blade," Giacchino said. "I think that's an amazing, amazing character. It's one of my favorites. But I feel like that thing is already in motion in a way that is like, and I'm in motion on other things as well, and there's just-- It's a whole… you know. It's just, timing-wise, it's a little crazy.
Little is known about Blade's entry into the sprawling MCU but the character has already joined the fold in an off-screen cameo. Ali first played the role in one of Eternals' post-credits scenes where he cautions Dane Whitman about handling the magical Ebony Blade. "It was scary," Ali said. "I'm pretty particular about my choices, like most actors, and so having to make some choices -- even with a line, vocally -- this early on, it brought up some very real anxieties."
Blade is slated to hit theaters on Sep. 6, 2024.
Source: The Cosmic Circus