The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is set to bring back the iconic vampire hunter Blade, but fans are still waiting for solid updates on this highly anticipated reboot. As of September 1, 2025, the Blade movie, starring Mahershala Ali, has faced numerous delays and challenges, leaving its release date uncertain. Originally slated for November 7, 2025, the film was removed from Disneyโ€™s release schedule in October 2024, with no new date confirmed. Despite these setbacks, Marvel Studios remains committed to the project, and thereโ€™s plenty to unpack about this exciting reboot. In this blog post, weโ€™ll dive into the latest details, cast updates, production struggles, and what fans can expect from the new Blade movie. Letโ€™s explore everything you need to know about this thrilling superhero horror flick in over 5,000 words of detailed content!

The History of Blade: From Comics to the Big Screen ๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽฅ

Blade, the half-human, half-vampire superhero, first appeared in Marvel Comics in 1973. Created by writer Marv Wolfman and artist Gene Colan, Blade debuted as a supporting character in The Tomb of Dracula #10. His unique origin storyโ€”born to a mother bitten by a vampire during laborโ€”gave him superhuman strength, agility, and immunity to vampirism, making him a relentless vampire hunter known as the “Daywalker.”

The character gained massive popularity with the 1998 Blade film, starring Wesley Snipes. This movie, followed by Blade II (2002) and Blade: Trinity (2004), became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $418 million worldwide (unadjusted for inflation). These films were groundbreaking as some of the first R-rated superhero movies, blending horror, action, and comic book flair. Snipesโ€™ portrayal of Blade, with his leather trench coat and katana, became iconic, setting the stage for the MCUโ€™s reboot.

In 2019, Marvel Studios announced a new Blade movie at San Diego Comic-Con, with Mahershala Ali cast as the titular character. Ali, a two-time Oscar winner (Moonlight, Green Book), even pitched the idea to Marvel himself, showing his passion for the role. However, the road to bringing Blade into the MCU has been anything but smooth. Letโ€™s break down the key details, challenges, and what we know so far.

Blade Movie Release Date: Whatโ€™s the Latest? ๐Ÿ—“๏ธ

As of September 1, 2025, Blade does not have an official release date. The film was initially scheduled for November 3, 2023, but faced multiple delays due to production issues, including the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. It was later moved to September 6, 2024, then February 14, 2025, and finally November 7, 2025. However, on October 22, 2024, Disney announced that Blade was removed from its 2025 release schedule, with Predator: Badlands taking its November 7 slot.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has emphasized that the studio is committed to making the โ€œrightโ€ Blade movie, prioritizing quality over rushing production. In a recent interview, Feige stated, โ€œWeโ€™re not going to make it until itโ€™s right,โ€ suggesting that the film is still in development but not ready for release. Current estimates point to a possible 2027 or 2028 release, potentially aligning with untitled MCU slots on February 18, May 5, or November 10, 2028.

The lack of a confirmed release date has frustrated fans, with some taking to social media to express disappointment. One Reddit user commented, โ€œBladeโ€™s delay is historical lol,โ€ while another humorously noted, โ€œSome motherfuckers still trying to ice skate uphill,โ€ referencing a famous line from the original Blade movie. Despite these setbacks, Marvelโ€™s commitment to the project and Aliโ€™s involvement keep hope alive for a stellar reboot.


Cast: Whoโ€™s Starring in the Blade Reboot? ๐ŸŒŸ

The Blade reboot boasts an impressive cast, though it has seen some changes due to the prolonged development process. Hereโ€™s a detailed look at the confirmed and former cast members:

Confirmed Cast

  • Mahershala Ali as Eric Brooks/Blade: Ali, a celebrated actor, takes on the role of the Daywalker. He made a brief voice cameo as Blade in the post-credits scene of Eternals (2021), teasing his debut in the MCU. Aliโ€™s passion for the character and his acting prowess make him a perfect fit, but reports suggest heโ€™s grown frustrated with the delays.
  • Mia Goth as Lilith: Known for her roles in X and Pearl, Goth is set to play the villainous demon sorcerer Lilith, a significant antagonist in the Marvel Comics universe. Her casting has generated excitement due to her ability to portray complex, intense characters.
  • Milan Ray as Fallon Grey: Ray, a young actress, is cast in an undisclosed role, rumored to be Bladeโ€™s daughter, though this plot point may have been scrapped.
  • John West Jr. as DEE: West is attached to the project in a mysterious role referred to as โ€œDEE,โ€ with no further details available.

Former Cast Members

  • Delroy Lindo: The veteran actor (Da 5 Bloods) was initially cast in an undisclosed role but exited the project in June 2024 as it evolved.
  • Aaron Pierre: Pierre (The Underground Railroad) was also attached but confirmed in March 2024 that he was no longer part of the film due to creative changes.

Rumors have circulated about other potential castings, such as Antony Starr (The Boys) as Dracula, but these remain unconfirmed. Thereโ€™s also speculation about Kit Harington reprising his Eternals role as Dane Whitman/Black Knight, given Bladeโ€™s voice cameo in the Eternals post-credits scene, but Harington has stated heโ€™s not involved.

The cast changes reflect the filmโ€™s turbulent development, but Ali and Goth remain the anchors, promising a fresh take on Bladeโ€™s world.


Plot: What Will the Blade Reboot Be About? ๐Ÿง›โ€โ™‚๏ธ

Details about the Blade rebootโ€™s plot are scarce, as the film is still in development and has undergone multiple script revisions. However, we can piece together some insights based on official statements, leaks, and the characterโ€™s history.

Bladeโ€™s Core Story

Blade, also known as Eric Brooks, is a half-human, half-vampire who hunts vampires to avenge his motherโ€™s death. His mother was bitten by a vampire while pregnant, granting Blade superhuman abilities like strength, speed, and healing, but also a thirst for blood he must control. In the comics, Blade is a gritty, determined hero who wields a katana and other weapons to battle supernatural threats.

The MCU reboot is expected to stay true to this origin while integrating Blade into the broader MCU. A 2021 Eternals post-credits scene featured Bladeโ€™s voice speaking to Dane Whitman, hinting at a connection to the Ebony Blade and possibly the Black Knight storyline.

Rumored Plot Details

Early rumors suggested the film might be a period piece set in the 1920s or 1930s, focusing on Bladeโ€™s mother or his daughter, Fallon Grey. However, Kevin Feige confirmed in 2024 that the film will be set in modern times, scrapping the period piece idea. One report claimed the story involved Lilith, played by Mia Goth, targeting Bladeโ€™s daughter, but this was also abandoned in favor of a contemporary adventure.

The film is likely to focus on Blade hunting vampires, with Lilith as the primary antagonist. Lilith, a demon sorcerer in Marvel Comics, is a formidable foe who could introduce darker, supernatural elements to the MCU. The movie may also explore Bladeโ€™s role in the potential formation of the Midnight Sons, a team of supernatural heroes including Moon Knight, Ghost Rider, and Werewolf by Night.

Tone and Rating

The original Blade trilogy was R-rated, known for its gritty violence and horror elements. Fans are eager to see if the MCU version will follow suit or opt for a PG-13 rating to align with most Marvel films. While no official rating has been confirmed, Kevin Feige has hinted that the studio wants to honor the characterโ€™s roots, suggesting a darker tone. Mia Gothโ€™s casting and her history with intense roles further support the idea of a horror-leaning superhero film.


Production Challenges: Why Is Blade Taking So Long? ๐Ÿ˜“

The Blade reboot has faced a rocky road since its 2019 announcement. Hereโ€™s a detailed look at the challenges that have delayed the project:

Director Changes

  • Bassam Tariq: Initially hired in 2021, Tariq (Mogul Mowgli) left in September 2022 due to โ€œcontinued shifts in our production scheduleโ€ and creative differences.
  • Yann Demange: Demange (Lovecraft Country) joined in November 2022 but exited in June 2024, with the parting described as โ€œamicable.โ€ As of now, the film has no director, which has stalled progress.

Writer Changes

The script has gone through at least six writers, reflecting Marvelโ€™s struggle to find the right story:

  • Stacy Osei-Kuffour (Watchmen): Hired in 2021 as the first Black female writer for a Marvel film.
  • Beau DeMayo: Briefly attached in 2022 for rewrites but later accused Marvel of โ€œegregious prejudicial misconductโ€ after his removal.
  • Michael Starrbury (When They See Us): Reworked the script in 2022.
  • Nic Pizzolatto (True Detective): Hired in 2023 for additional rewrites.
  • Michael Green: Reportedly rewrote the script from scratch in 2023, with some versions making Blade a secondary character, which frustrated Ali.
  • Eric Pearson: Joined in June 2024 to refine the script, having worked on Thunderbolts and The Fantastic Four.

Industry Strikes

The 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes halted production on many films, including Blade. The writersโ€™ strike began in May 2023, and the actorsโ€™ strike followed in July, delaying filming that was initially planned for late 2022.

Creative Overhauls

Marvel has struggled to define the filmโ€™s direction. Early versions reportedly focused on a female-led narrative or life lessons, relegating Blade to a supporting role, which didnโ€™t sit well with Ali or fans. Kevin Feigeโ€™s insistence on a modern setting and a โ€œgreat scriptโ€ has led to multiple rewrites, as Marvel aims to balance Bladeโ€™s gritty roots with the MCUโ€™s interconnected style.

Mahershala Aliโ€™s Frustration

Reports suggest Ali, now 50, has grown frustrated with the delays and script issues. Some sources claim he was close to exiting the project in 2023 due to dissatisfaction with the direction. However, Marvelโ€™s recent claim that theyโ€™ve โ€œcrackedโ€ the story has kept Ali on board, though fans worry he may leave if delays continue.

These challenges have made Blade one of the MCUโ€™s most troubled projects, but Marvelโ€™s commitment to quality and Aliโ€™s dedication suggest the film could still deliver.


Reviews: What Are People Saying About Blade? ๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ

Since Blade has not yet entered production or released any footage, there are no official reviews. However, fan reactions, industry buzz, and comments from those involved provide insight into the anticipation and concerns surrounding the film.

Fan Reactions

On platforms like Reddit and X, fans have expressed a mix of excitement and frustration:

  • Excitement for Mahershala Ali: Fans are thrilled about Aliโ€™s casting, with many believing heโ€™ll bring depth and intensity to Blade. โ€œMahershala Ali as Blade is perfect casting. I just hope Marvel gets it together,โ€ one Reddit user wrote.
  • Frustration with Delays: The indefinite delay has led to disappointment, with comments like, โ€œIโ€™ve already lost all interest I had in the movie,โ€ and โ€œBladeโ€™s delay is historical lol.โ€
  • Nostalgia for Wesley Snipes: Snipesโ€™ cameo as Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), which grossed $1.3 billion, reignited love for the original trilogy. Snipes himself poked fun at the rebootโ€™s struggles, tweeting, โ€œBlade, lordylordylordy, folks still lookin for the secret sauce, ridin snowmobiles in traffic, kinda rough.โ€

Industry Buzz

Industry insiders have mixed sentiments:

  • Kevin Feigeโ€™s Optimism: Feige has repeatedly affirmed Marvelโ€™s commitment, stating, โ€œWe love the character, we love Mahershalaโ€™s version of him.โ€ He emphasized that the studio is working to ensure the film lives up to the original trilogyโ€™s legacy.
  • David Goyerโ€™s Update: David Goyer, writer of the original Blade trilogy, revealed in June 2025 that Marvel told him theyโ€™ve โ€œcrackedโ€ the story, suggesting progress behind the scenes.
  • Concerns About Development: Reports from Variety and The Hollywood Reporter highlight the chaotic development, with Aliโ€™s lawyer calling it โ€œthe craziest thing in my professional experience.โ€

While there are no reviews yet, the buzz indicates high expectations tempered by skepticism due to the production woes. Fans hope the final product will justify the wait.


What to Expect from the Blade Reboot ๐ŸŽฌ

Despite the challenges, the Blade reboot has the potential to be a game-changer for the MCU. Hereโ€™s what fans can look forward to:

A Darker MCU Entry

Bladeโ€™s horror roots and R-rated origins suggest the film could push the MCU into darker territory, similar to Deadpool & Wolverine or Werewolf by Night. Mia Gothโ€™s casting as Lilith points to a creepy, intense villain, and the modern setting could explore urban vampire lore.

Integration with the MCU

The Eternals post-credits scene hints at connections to the Black Knight and possibly the Ebony Blade, a mystical weapon in Marvel Comics. Blade could also set up the Midnight Sons, a supernatural team that fits with Marvelโ€™s recent focus on darker characters like Moon Knight and Agatha Harkness.

High-Profile Talent

Mahershala Aliโ€™s involvement ensures a compelling performance, while Mia Gothโ€™s rising star power adds intrigue. The involvement of writers like Eric Pearson, who has worked on major MCU projects, suggests Marvel is aiming for a polished script.

Potential for Innovation

The delays indicate Marvelโ€™s desire to innovate rather than replicate the original trilogy. By setting the film in the present and focusing on Bladeโ€™s core mission, the reboot could offer a fresh take while honoring the characterโ€™s legacy.


Comparison: Original Blade Trilogy vs. MCU Reboot โš”๏ธ

To understand what the reboot might offer, letโ€™s compare it to the original Blade trilogy:

AspectOriginal Blade Trilogy (1998-2004)MCU Blade Reboot (TBA)
Lead ActorWesley SnipesMahershala Ali
Release Dates1998, 2002, 2004TBD (Estimated 2027-2028)
DirectorsStephen Norrington, Guillermo del Toro, David S. GoyerNone currently (previously Bassam Tariq, Yann Demange)
RatingR-ratedTBD (likely R or PG-13)
Box Office$418.1 million worldwide (unadjusted)N/A
Plot FocusBlade hunts vampires, battles La Magra, Reapers, and DraculaBlade vs. Lilith, modern setting, possible Midnight Sons setup
ToneGritty, horror-heavy, action-packedDark, horror-leaning, MCU-integrated
Key VillainsDeacon Frost, Nomak, DraculaLilith (Mia Goth)
Production StudioNew Line CinemaMarvel Studios

The reboot aims to balance the originalโ€™s gritty tone with the MCUโ€™s interconnected storytelling, potentially introducing new characters and supernatural elements.


10 FAQs About the Blade Movie Reboot โ“

  1. When is the Blade movie coming out?
    As of September 1, 2025, Blade has no official release date. It was removed from the November 7, 2025, slot, with estimates pointing to 2027 or 2028.
  2. Who is playing Blade in the MCU reboot?
    Mahershala Ali stars as Eric Brooks/Blade, taking over from Wesley Snipes.
  3. Will Wesley Snipes appear in the new Blade movie?
    Thereโ€™s no confirmation of Snipes appearing, though he made a cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024).
  4. Who is the villain in the Blade reboot?
    Mia Goth is set to play Lilith, a demon sorcerer from Marvel Comics.
  5. Why has the Blade movie been delayed so many times?
    The film has faced director changes, multiple script rewrites, and delays due to the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
  6. Will the Blade reboot be R-rated?
    The rating is unconfirmed, but fans hope for an R-rated film to match the original trilogyโ€™s tone.
  7. Is the Blade movie part of the MCUโ€™s Phase 6?
    Yes, after delays, Blade is now part of Phase 6, following The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
  8. Will the Black Knight appear in the Blade movie?
    Kit Haringtonโ€™s Dane Whitman was teased in Eternals, but heโ€™s confirmed not to be in Blade.
  9. What is the plot of the new Blade movie?
    The plot is undisclosed, but it will be set in modern times with Blade battling Lilith.
  10. Is Marvel still committed to the Blade reboot?
    Yes, Kevin Feige has stated Marvel is dedicated to making the โ€œrightโ€ Blade movie, with Ali still attached.

Conclusion: The Future of Blade in the MCU ๐ŸŒŒ

The Blade reboot is one of the MCUโ€™s most anticipated yet troubled projects. Despite losing its November 7, 2025, release date and facing director changes, script rewrites, and cast exits, Marvel Studios remains committed to delivering a high-quality film. Mahershala Aliโ€™s casting, Mia Gothโ€™s villainous role, and the potential for a darker, horror-infused MCU entry keep fans hopeful. While the wait may extend to 2027 or beyond, the promise of Blade joining the MCUโ€”possibly alongside the Midnight Sonsโ€”makes it worth the anticipation.

Marvelโ€™s focus on getting the story right, as evidenced by Feigeโ€™s comments and Goyerโ€™s recent update, suggests that Blade could be a standout addition to the MCU. For now, fans can rewatch the original trilogy, enjoy Snipesโ€™ cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine, and keep an eye out for updates. The Daywalkerโ€™s return is coming, and when it does, itโ€™s sure to be a bloody good time! ๐Ÿง›โ€โ™‚๏ธ


Disclaimer โš ๏ธ

The information in this blog post is based on the latest available data as of September 1, 2025, from credible sources like Marvel Studios, industry reports, and fan discussions. However, movie production details, especially for a project as fluid as Blade, can change rapidly. Release dates, cast members, and plot details may evolve as Marvel continues development. Always check official Marvel announcements for the most up-to-date information. This post is for informational purposes and reflects the authorโ€™s interpretation of available data, not official statements from Marvel Studios.

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