When Bassam Tariq departed the Marvel Studios’ production of “Blade” just weeks before the film was expected to begin production, many assumed this would lead to a possible delay. Well, everyone was right.
According to THR, Marvel Studios has reportedly paused work on “Blade” as the studio continues its search for a new director to helm the superhero film. Pre-production was underway in Atlanta on the film, and the report claims that the crew was told that everything would be paused for an unspecified amount of time. Though, it is hoped that production will begin in early 2023. The film already had a fairly aggressive timeline, as the vampire feature was expected to arrive in theaters in November 2023. You have to assume that the release date will soon be changed.
As mentioned, “Blade” was thrown for a loop when Tariq left the film before the November start date. Based on the Marvel Comics of the same name, “Blade” stars Mahershala Ali as the title character, a Daywalker vampire hunter who is on the hunt for the evil bloodsuckers. The film was first announced years ago, and fans have eagerly anticipated the reboot film, as the original “Blade” trilogy from the late-’90s/early-’00s is still beloved.
“Blade” currently co-stars Delroy Lindo, Aaron Pierre, and Milan Ray in undisclosed roles. Still, one has to wonder if the shooting schedule change—maybe not until late winter/early spring 2023— affects their participation. Though, of course, Marvel is likely scheduling everything around its star and his busy schedule.
If filming does begin in early 2023, it’s possible the film could debut in early 2024; there is an open February 2024 slot that Marvel once had slotted, instead choosing a September 2024 slot for “Deadpool 3.” That would leave Marvel Studios without a November 2023 film, but maybe there could be some juggling. As of now, the first Marvel 2024 film is “Captain America: New World Order,” which is set to release in May. That doesn’t seem like it could be pushed forward now, but who knows? Things can change.
Regardless, it appears “Blade” is now in a state of flux and very likely not arriving in 2023 as initially planned. We’ll have to wait and see how quickly a new filmmaker can be brought on and when production can begin.
