Marvel became the leader in superhero movies thanks to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The MCU successfully brought the publisher’s beloved characters to a wide audience, mirroring the spirit of the comics and creating a connected world of films and TV shows that captivated viewers for ten years. However, after the huge success of 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, the films have faced some difficulties, including a rare box office failure and several underwhelming releases. The recent success of 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine, with its mature rating and strong performance, may point to a new path forward for Marvel Studios to regain its former glory.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe would benefit from more mature, darker stories that explore the full range of its characters. Fortunately, Marvel has a wealth of heroes and villains perfect for R-rated films. Here are seven characters who could deliver exactly that, and draw audiences back to the cinema.
7) Lady Deathstrike
Marvel has often tried to showcase its villains, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe would be an ideal setting to really introduce them to a wider audience. One villain from the Wolverine comics who deserves attention is Lady Deathstrike. Driven by a desire to restore her family’s reputation after her father’s work was stolen, she transformed into a cyborg. While often depicted as a dangerous enemy of Wolverine, she’s also a surprisingly sympathetic character. A movie focusing on her journey through a criminal underworld, as she attempts to reclaim her honor, could be really compelling.
6) Damon Hellstrom
Damon Hellstrom, also known as the Son of Satan, is a Marvel character who hasn’t gotten much attention over the years. He debuted in the 1970s when comic book restrictions eased, and while he tried to be a heroic figure battling his own demonic nature, he never became truly popular. Marvel occasionally revives the character, but these attempts haven’t been successful. However, a darker, more mature movie could be exactly what Hellstrom needs to finally find an audience – he’s well-suited for that kind of story.
5) Blade
Marvel had its first big hit with the movie Blade, so it’s surprising we haven’t seen a new one in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Wesley Snipes, who originally played Blade, made a cameo in Deadpool/Wolverine, and a film starring Mahershala Ali as Blade was even planned, but it was ultimately cancelled. It’s time Marvel made a mature, R-rated horror movie focused on the vampire hunter, like they did successfully three times before. They need to overcome whatever obstacles are holding them back and finally deliver what fans are eager to see.
4) Ghost Rider
Ghost Rider is a Marvel character who’s had some success in standalone films, and it’s time to bring him into the main Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Spirit of Vengeance is a great fit for a more mature, R-rated movie. Nicholas Cage could reprise his role as Johnny Blaze, or Marvel could explore other versions of the character like Danny Ketch or Robbie Reyes. With his striking visuals and potential for exciting action, Ghost Rider could become a major hero in the MCU if Marvel develops his story well.
3) Magik
Magik, first introduced in The New Mutants, has recently become a hugely popular Marvel character, boosted by appearances in games like Midnight Suns and Marvel Rivals. She’d be a fantastic lead for a mature, R-rated film. Her compelling backstory – a difficult past and a constant struggle with her own inner demons – offers rich storytelling potential. A movie exploring both her internal battles and external conflicts would be a great way to showcase the depth of Marvel’s mutant universe and further elevate Magik’s popularity.
2) Shang-Chi
While Shang-Chi’s first MCU movie was generally well-received, it didn’t become a huge fan favorite. A follow-up could really succeed by leaning into the incredible martial arts showcased in the original – specifically, by delivering more intense and graphic action. The comics have also established Shang-Chi as a skilled spy, offering another compelling direction. Alternatively, a film drawing on Chinese mythology and horror – something actor Simu Liu is passionate about bringing to the screen – could resonate with global audiences. To truly stand out, Marvel should move beyond its typical superhero formula and explore a darker, more mature tone for the character. It has the potential to be a massive hit.
1) Wolverine
Similar to how Shang-Chi was introduced, Wolverine has now appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I’m avoiding using a picture of Hugh Jackman because it’s unclear if he’ll continue playing the role, or if we’ll see multiple versions of Wolverine due to the multiverse. Regardless, Wolverine’s character is best suited for more mature, R-rated films – he’s thrived in that kind of environment. There are countless compelling stories about this Canadian mutant that would work perfectly in an R-rated movie, and Marvel Studios should keep that in mind when planning his future appearances.
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2025-12-02 22:12