Wesley Snipes vs. Blade: Should He Return for a New Trilogy?

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has welcomed many heroes and villains over the years, but one character's absence has lingered in the minds of many: Wesley Snipes' Blade. Last seen in 2000's Bullet to the Head, fans have been eagerly waiting for a return of the vampiric detective. This article explores the potential reintroduction of Wesley Snipes as Blade and the impact it could have on the MCU.

The Blade Character

Blade is a supernatural hero with vampire blood and enhanced abilities. Created by author Stephen Barrun and established in the Marvel Comics in 1972, he first appeared on screen in 1998's Blade, and fought alongside the X-Men for a time. Snipes' portrayal added depth and charisma to the character, which is why many fans are hoping for another opportunity to see him in action.

The 2000s Bubble

The 2000s were a pivotal time for the superhero genre in Hollywood. With no established MCU at that point, Blade and Bullet to the Head were attempting to make a name for themselves in a burgeoning market. However, the films were not the critical or commercial successes that many had hoped for. The performances and plotlines were divisive, and the franchise struggled to find its footing.

Would He Return for a Trilogy?

The idea of Wesley Snipes reprising his Blade character for a new trilogy is met with both excitement and skepticism. Here are some factors to consider:

Snipes' Current Role: Snipes has taken a more low-profile role in the entertainment industry in recent years. A new Blade trilogy would present a significant comeback opportunity for the actor, providing him with a fresh platform to showcase his skills. Character Development: In the intervening years, both the character and the film landscape have evolved. A new trilogy could offer a fresh take on Blade's mythos, potentially bringing more depth and complexity to the character. Casting Decisions: Marvel Studios, now a household name, has a roster of talented actors and characters. Bringing back a character from the 2000s would require rethinking how Blade fits into the larger narrative of the MCU.

Fan Reactions

The idea of Wesley Snipes returning as Blade has sparked a lot of discussion among fans. Many feel that Snipes' instant chemistry with other heroes like the X-Men made the character an integral part of early comic book movie lore. Here are some common fan reactions:

Positive: Fans are thrilled at the prospect of seeing Wesley Snipes back in the role. They believe his history with other superheroes and his unique background as a human-vampire hybrid make him a compelling addition to the MCU. Negative: Some feel that the original era of Blade didn't live up to expectations, and another try at revitalizing the character might not be justified given the inherent challenges of bringing back dormant characters. Neutral: Others are more interested in seeing new characters and stories rather than revisiting franchise versions of well-known heroes.

Potential Collaborations

If Wesley Snipes were to return as Blade, there are several potential collaborations that could be explored:

Blade and the X-Men: Given his past collaboration with the X-Men, a rebooted Blade trilogy might naturally lead to some crossover stories involving other high-profile mutants. Blade and the MCU: While still a standalone project, a new Blade trilogy could serve as a precursor to larger events in the MCU, introducing characters like Sh Yinlock or weaving in events that precede or relate to the Infinity Saga. Blade and Other Vampires: Along with the classic Blade, the series could explore other vampire characters with limited appearances, giving the franchise a wider scope.

Conclusion

The potential return of Wesley Snipes as Blade for a new trilogy is an exciting proposition that could breathe new life into the character and offer fans a unique narrative. The key lies in how the character is handled and the storytelling approach. Whether it happens or not, the anticipation alone highlights the enduring appeal of the Blade character and the legacy Wesley Snipes has left in the world of Hollywood superheroes.