Blade: Marvel Movie Canceled? Conflicting Rumors Cause Confusion
Another rumor links the "John Wick" director to the project
The crazy story surrounding the production of the new "Blade" film has been enriched by another chapter: two contradictory rumors are currently circulating in the movie world. TheInsneider reports that "John Wick" director Chad Stahelski is in talks for the Marvel film. However, another insider refutes this: according to them, the film has been canceled!
As a reminder, the reboot of "Blade" was originally announced at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019. "Moonlight" star Mahershala Ali was cast in the lead role. Since then, however, the production has repeatedly drawn attention to itself with significant problems. In the meantime, there was even a release date, but it was scrapped in October 2024.
Rumor Surrounding Chad Stahelski
According to Jeff Sneider, Chad Stahelski is now being considered for the director's position. This is supported by the fact that the "John Wick" director has already expressed his interest in the project several times in the past.
However, insider Rodrigo Perez contradicts the rumor. According to his sources, "Blade" has been canceled for the time being. It remains to be seen what will actually come true. Currently, it is difficult to keep track of all the announcements and rumors. However, if a standalone film is no longer made, there is still the possibility that Mahershala Ali could appear as Blade in other Marvel productions.
Either way, Chad Stahelski remains a busy director. At CinemaCon, it was recently announced that Stahelski will be shooting "John Wick 5" with Keanu Reeves. Moreover, the director still has the "Highlander" reboot with Henry Cavill in the lead role on his schedule. You can find all the information on the new adaptation of the fantasy classic in our big movie preview!
The "Blade" Movies
Based on the Marvel comic book character of the same name, the film series tells the story of Blade, a half-human, half-vampire fighter who resists his thirst for blood to save the world from the creatures of the night. With a mix of action, horror and comic book elements, "Blade" has made a lasting impact on pop culture.
Blade (1998)
The first movie, directed by Stephen Norrington, brought the vampire hunter to life in a way that was completely new at the time. The role of Blade was played by Wesley Snipes, whose portrayal of the hero quickly became a trademark. The movie was a surprising hit and became one of the first major superhero movies inspired by a Marvel character.
The movie tells the story of Blade, who opposes a secret vampire society led by Deacon Frost (played by Stephen Dorff), a rebellious vampire who plans to subjugate humanity. One of Blade's distinguishing features is that, unlike vampires, he can move in sunlight. "Blade" not only contained action-packed combat scenes and impressive effects, but also a dark atmosphere that set the mood for the entire series.
Blade II (2002)
Four years after the success of the first movie, Blade returned to the big screen with "Blade II". This time the director was Mexican Guillermo del Toro, who later became even better known for films such as "Pan's Labyrinth", "The Shape of Water" and "Hellboy". The second part expanded the universe of the first film and introduced a new threat in the form of the "Reapers", a mutated form of a vampire that feeds on vampires.
Blade: Trinity (2004)
In 2004, "Blade: Trinity", the third part of the series directed by David S. Goyer, was released in cinemas. Goyer also wrote the screenplay, as he did for the first two movies. In "Blade: Trinity", the protagonist even has to face Dracula himself.
The cast of the film includes some well-known names: Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Biel, Kris Kristofferson and Dominic Purcell. Despite the prominent cast, "Blade: Trinity" was met with mixed reactions from critics.
What is certain, however, is that the film series still has a loyal fan base. For many, Wesley Snipes in particular is forever associated with "Blade".