Marvel Studios recently announced delays for several of its upcoming Phase 5 projects, moving some from 2023 to 2024. These delays include the Disney+ series Echo, What If…? Season 2, Agatha: Coven of Chaos, and the Blade movie. The Marvels, Captain Marvel’s sequel, and Ironheart could also be delayed. While this news may disappoint some fans, it’s important to understand why these delays are ultimately a good thing for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Marvel Studios’ Phase 4 had to follow the epic conclusion of Avengers: Endgame and the Infinity Saga, which was no small task. The COVID-19 pandemic halted production and led to delays across the entire phase. Despite these obstacles, Marvel has delivered several well-received projects such as WandaVision, Loki, and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. However, not all of the content has been unanimously praised by fans, leading to rumors that Marvel is re-evaluating and “assuring quality control” for Phase 5 and beyond.
Here are four reasons why Phase 5 delays could ultimately benefit the MCU.
1. Quality over quantity
One of the criticisms of Phase 4 has been a decline in quality, especially in writing, humor, and visual effects. Marvel Studios’ reported focus on “quality control” indicates a desire to address these issues. Delaying projects provides more time for writers, directors, and VFX teams to perfect their work. This extra time could help create better storytelling, more polished effects, and more well-rounded characters.
2. More room to breathe
Since the Infinity Saga ended, the MCU has increased its output to at least six projects per year across big-screen and Disney+ releases. The sheer volume of content means that Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has to be less involved in some aspects of production. This step back from the creative process may have contributed to the quality issues in Phase 4. Delaying some projects would allow Feige to become more involved, maintain quality control, and ensure that each project receives the attention it deserves.
3. Less overlap with other franchises
Disney+ has been churning out content from both Marvel and Star Wars at a rapid pace. When the MCU’s Ms. Marvel and Star Wars’ Obi-Wan Kenobi released weekly episodes on the same day, viewership on the former was stunted. By reducing the number of releases each year, Marvel Studios could create more breathing room between its own projects and those of other franchises. This would allow each project to get the attention it deserves without being overshadowed by other releases.
4. Better marketing and hype building
Delaying projects also provides more time for marketing and hype building. Delayed projects could benefit from an extended marketing campaign, building anticipation for their eventual release. A longer wait time could also create a sense of scarcity and make the release feel more significant.
Marvel Studios has not officially confirmed any of the Phase 5 delays beyond Blade, but the rumors have led to speculation that more delays may be announced soon. The delays may frustrate some fans, but the extra time could ultimately benefit the MCU in the long run. With a renewed focus on quality control, more breathing room between releases, and better marketing opportunities, Marvel Studios could create a Phase 5 that lives up to the high standards set by the Infinity Saga.
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