With the MCU’sBlademovie experiencing some turmoil,Marvelwould be wise to consider the failures and successes of the iconic Wesley Snipes trilogy.The MCU’sBladeintroduces the famed vampire-hunting superhero intothe MCU timelineafter Wesley Snipes’ Blade made a triumphant cameo appearance inDeadpool & Wolverine. This opened up questions about Snipes returning for anotherBlademovie, or even replacing Mahershala Ali as the franchise’s new Blade. These are completely speculative, but there are certainly lessons to learn from Snipes’ iconic trilogy.
TheoriginalBladetrilogy, starring Wesley Snipes, was a trailblazer in the superhero genre. Released between 1998 and 2004, the films carved out a niche by blending action, horror, and comic book elements in a way that had rarely been seen before. Snipes' portrayal of Blade - a half-vampire, half-human warrior on a mission to rid the world of vampires - was both iconic and definitive. These films were groundbreaking in their approach, offering a gritty, violent, and stylish take on superhero cinema that predated the modern era of comic book movies.
What’s Going On With Marvel’s Blade Movie
Though production on the film has been plagued with delays and crew changes, the MCU’s Blade reboot is still very much expected to go on.
10The MCU’s Blade Needs To Be A Horror Movie
One of the key reasonsthe originalBladetrilogy succeededwas its commitment to genuine horror. The films didn’t shy away fromexploring the darker, more terrifying aspects of the vampiremythos, which set them apart from the typical superhero fare. The vampires in the Blade trilogy were not just enemies to be vanquished; they were monsters in every sense of the word, dripping with menace and evil.
The eerie atmosphere, unsettling imagery, and gruesome scenes of bloodshed made theBladetrilogy a unique fusion of horror and action. For the MCU’s Blade to resonate with fans of the original trilogy, it mustembrace this horror element fully. While the MCU is known for its lighthearted tone and family-friendly content, theBlademovie would benefit from a darker approach. With success in horror-infused superhero stories, such asDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,there is potential for the MCU to push boundaries withBlade.
9Blade Must Have A Good Whistler
Kris Kristofferson Played Whistler In The Blade Trilogy
In the originalBladetrilogy, Abraham Whistler was more than just a mentor to Blade; he was the emotional anchor of the series. Whistler’s gruff demeanor, tragic backstory, and deep sense of purpose provideda counterbalance to Blade’s stoic and often isolated nature. Whistler humanized Blade, offering a glimpse into the heart of the vampire hunter that might otherwise remain hidden beneath his tough exterior.
This dynamic was crucial in making Blade a relatable and compelling character, rather than just a ruthless killing machine. For the MCU’sBladeto capture the same emotional depth, itneeds a character like Whistler to serve as Blade’s confidant, mentor, and moral compass. Without a strong supporting character like Whistler, the new Blade risks losing the emotional core that made the original films resonate with audiences.
8Blade Cannot Be A Typical Marvel Superhero
Blade Is A Violent Anti-Hero
One of the aspects that made Wesley Snipes' Blade so memorable was his unapologetic ruthlessness. Blade was not your typical hero; he was a relentless, cold-blooded warrior driven by a singular mission: to eradicate vampires. This antihero persona set him apart from other superheroes of the time and made him a standout character in the genre. Bladewasn’t concerned with saving the world or upholding justicein the traditional sense; his motivations were deeply personal, rooted in vengeance and survival.
Forthe MCU’sBladeto be successful, it must avoid turning Blade into a conventional Marvel superhero. Heshould not be another bright, shiny Avenger who fights for the greater goodwith a quip and a smile. Instead, Blade should remain a complex, morally ambiguous character whose methods are often brutal and merciless. By embracing Blade’s antihero nature, the MCU can create a film that offers something different from its usual fare.
7Slick Fight Scenes Are Key
The Blade Trilogy Was Widely Celebrated For Its Fight Scenes
TheBladetrilogy was known for its stylish and intense fight scenes, which were some of the most memorable aspects. Wesley Snipes, a trained martial artist,brought a level of physicality and precision to the rolethat made Blade’s combat sequences thrilling to watch. Whether it was a high-octane showdown in a vampire nightclub or a one-on-one duel with a powerful vampire, the fight scenes were choreographed with a level of detail and creativity that set them apart from other action films of the era.
The MCU’sBlademust deliver equally impressive fight scenes. In an age where audiences are accustomed to elaborate CGI battles, the MCU’sBladeshould focus on practical, hand-to-hand combatthat showcases the skill and agility of its protagonist. The fight choreography should be dynamic, brutal, and visually striking, with a focus on creating memorable moments that will stay with audiences.
6Blade Needs To Look Iconic
Wesley Snipes' Blade Quickly Became An Icon
The originalBladetrilogy was filled with scenes that cemented Blade’s status as an icon, from his dramatic superhero landings (which originated inBlade) to his effortlessly catching sunglasses in midair. These moments, combined with his distinctive leather trench coat, shades, and weapons, createda visual identity that was iconic and instantly recognizable. Blade’s look was a crucial part of his appeal, making him one of the most stylish and memorable Marvel characters.
The MCU should replicate a similar effect with its Blade. The costume design, the way Blade moves, and the way he interacts with his environmentall play a role in establishing his on-screen persona. The MCU should aim to create moments that are as visually iconic as those in the original trilogy, ensuring that Blade’s style is both timeless and unique.
10 Harsh Realities Of Rewatching The Blade Trilogy
The Blade trilogy may remain a beloved piece of superhero movie history, but rewatching the films brings some harsh truths about them to light.
5The MCU’s Blade Should Be R-Rated And Gory
The Blade Trilogy Was R-Rated
One of the defining characteristics of the originalBladetrilogy was its R-rated content, which allowed the films to fully embrace the violent and gory nature of their subject matter. The blood-soaked battles, gruesome vampire deaths, and dark, adult themes were integral to the series' success, setting it apart from its more sanitized superhero contemporaries. The R-rating gave the filmmakers thefreedom to explore the brutality of Blade’s world without compromise.
With the MCU gradually exploring R-rated territory through projects likeDeadpool & Wolverine, there is a real possibility that the newBladecould follow suit. For the movie to do justice to the character’s brutal nature, itshould not shy away from the violence and horrorthat define Blade’s world. An R-ratedBladewould allow the filmmakers to push the boundaries of a typical Marvel movie, and deliver a film that is true to the spirit of the comics and the original trilogy.
4Blade Needs A Good Supporting Cast
In each installment of the originalBladetrilogy, Blade was supported by a cast of compelling characters who enriched the story and provided additional layers to the narrative. Whether it was the tech-savvy Scud inBlade IIor the vampire hunters inBlade: Trinity, these characters added depth to the films and helped to flesh out Blade’s world. Theyserved as foils, allies, and sometimes even antagonists, providing Blade with challenges that went beyond simply slaying vampires.
The newBlademovie will need a similarly strong supporting cast to keep the story engaging and dynamic. A well-rounded supporting cast can help to humanize Blade, provide comic relief, or introduce new threats that test his resolve. By building a strong ensemble of characters around Blade, the MCU can preserve Blade’s stoic nature whileancillary players drive the narrative forward.
3Practical Effects For Vampires Are More Effective
The Blade Trilogy Used A Combination Of Practical And Digital Effects
While theBladetrilogy made use of CGI for some of its more fantastical elements, the most effective vampire effects were those achieved through practical means. The tangible, physical presence of the vampiresmade them more menacing and grounded in reality, enhancing the horror element of the films. In contrast, the few instances of CGI vampires, particularly inBlade: Trinity, often felt less convincing and detracted from the overall impact of the scenes.
Practical effects, such as makeup, prosthetics, and animatronics, allowed for a more visceral and immersive experience that CGI struggled to replicate at the time. Despite advances in CGI technology, the MCU’s Blade would be wise to embrace practical effects for its vampires. While CGI can be used to augment certain scenes, relying too heavily on itrisks making the vampires feel less realand more cartoonish.
2Blade Should Be As Cool As Wesley Snipes
Wesley Snipes Was Exceptionally Cool
Wesley Snipes' Bladeisone of the coolest characters in superhero cinema. Snipes brought a unique blend of charisma, intensity, and physicality to the role. His portrayal was defined by a calm, collected demeanor, razor-sharp wit, and an unwavering sense of purpose. Snipes' Blade was effortlessly cool, whether he was slicing through vampires or delivering a deadpan one-liner.
This coolness became one of the defining traits of the character and a key reason for the trilogy’s enduring popularity. The MCU’s Blade should seek to replicate this. This isno small feat, given the high bar set by Snipes, but it has become intrinsic to the character. Mahershala Ali, the new Blade, is an incredibly talented actor with the potential to bring his own brand of cool to the role. The key will be to allow Blade’s character to maintain his edge, his confidence, and his unique style.
1Don’t CGI Anybody’s Eyes
One of the more notorious moments in theBladetrilogy comes fromBlade: Trinity, where Wesley Snipes' eyes were digitally altered in a scenedue to behind-the-scenes conflicts. This incident has since become infamous, not just for the awkwardness of the CGI itself, but also for the story behind it. The difficulties on set, particularly between Snipes and the production team, led to a situation where the actor refused to open his eyes during a take, forcing the filmmakers to use CGI to correct the issue.
The result was a moment that felt jarring and out of place, serving asa reminder of the strained relationships behind the scenes. For the MCU’s Blade to avoid similar pitfalls, the MCU’sBlademust foster a positive and collaborative working environment. Ensuring good communication and respect between the cast and crew can prevent situations like the one that led to the infamous CGI eyes inBlade: Trinity.
Blade
Cast
Marvel Studios' Blade sees the return of the iconic vampire hunter more than two decades after Wesley Snipes first played the character in live-action. Starring Mahershala Ali as Eric Brooks, the Blade reboot officially introduces vampires to the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Eternals' second post-credits scene teased the Daywalker’s MCU debut.
