From 2004 with “Avengers Disassembled” up until 2010’s “Siege,” Marvel Comics has consistently provided storylines that have significantly impacted the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The upcoming release of “Thunderbolts” in May hints at some of these influences, merging various narrative threads and aspects to create a unique viewing experience. Iconic tales like “House of M,” “Civil War,” “Secret Invasion,” among others, have all found their way into the MCU in one form or another. With the arrival of the Thunderbolts, Sentry, and a transformation for the Avengers Watchtower, is it possible that we might witness the rise of “Dark Reign” within the MCU?
In the Marvel universe, Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ character Valentina Allegra de Fontaine appears to be instrumental in the events reminiscent of the “Dark Reign” era unfolding. In the comics, she was once part of S.H.I.E.L.D., but later exposed as Madame Hydra during the “Dark Reign” storyline. Additionally, she was uncovered as a Russian agent working with the Leviathan espionage network from the ex-Soviet Union. Essentially, she poses a significant problem for Nick Fury.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she’s more of a mysterious figure operating behind the scenes, serving as both the current CIA director and ex-spouse to Everett K. Ross, who is connected to Black Panther. Since her introduction in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” and “Black Widow”, Fontaine has been assembling a group of morally ambiguous characters for the Thunderbolts. Additionally, she’s recently been unveiled as the new proprietor of the Avengers Tower, which is now known as the Watchtower, as shown in the latest trailer.
In the newly released Thunderbolts trailer, it’s made clear that the Avengers Tower has indeed been acquired, a detail hinted at by director Jake Schreier in an interview with Empire, where he employed somewhat foreboding terminology.
Schreier stated, ‘We are well aware of the significance of that tower.’ He then posed a question: ‘Who would be the individual you’d dislike most to hold ownership over this tower, which holds such deep meaning for many? Could that person symbolize events starting to become more ominous?’
The Darkest Timeline
Following the tumultuous events of “Avengers Disassembled,” I find myself once again donning my critic’s hat to review the latest chapter in the Avengers saga. In this instalment, former team members rally new recruits for an Avengers unit headquartered within the iconic tower. A breach at The Raft compels our heroes to reunite, and in this period of turmoil, the enigmatic Sentry is welcomed into their ranks. His personal “watchtower” becomes a permanent fixture within the Avengers’ headquarters, adding another layer of intrigue to the team dynamics. Contrary to his darker comic book persona, Sentry is portrayed as an ally in this adaptation, despite his complex backstory that continues to unfold.
Under the “Dark Reign,” Sentry continues to be an Avenger, but he’s now a Dark Avenger under Harry Osborn’s command. The former Thunderbolts are disguised as original Avengers team members. For instance, Bullseye takes on Hawkeye’s role, Daken steps in as Wolverine, Mac Gargan becomes Spider-Man, Osborn is Iron Patriot, and Moonstone assumes the identity of Ms. Marvel. In place of Thor, Greek God Ares joins the team, while Grant Morrison’s creation, Marvel Boy, takes over as Captain Marvel.
If Ares had known that Sentry would split him in two during the upcoming “Seige”, he might have approached situations differently. Once Sentry was fully corrupted under Osborn’s influence and let The Void consume him, he tore apart Ares and fought the original Avengers before ultimately being defeated. Although he has died and been resurrected multiple times in comics, let’s just say that’s how it went down.
This concept won’t be easily adapted for screen representation, particularly with “Secret Wars” approaching. Additionally, the rules of comic book logic may impose limitations, and it seems likely that a streamlining process will begin with “Thunderbolts”. Nonetheless, Fontaine and his team are likely to contribute to the upcoming Avengers films. However, it remains unclear if they’ll carry over any remnants of “Dark Reign” before Phase Six concludes.
None of this hints at the presence of The Cabal, a malevolent counterpart to the Illuminati, which later plays a significant role in “Secret Wars”. Dark Reign introduced the initial version of the group, but it underwent numerous changes after Doctor Doom opted for a solo career. Later on, The Maker spearheaded a new Cabal consisting of Thanos, Terrax, Black Swan, Proxima Midnight, Corvus Glaive, and the Inhumans’ villain Maximus.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed to discover what the “darkness” in the MCU might entail, considering that in the upcoming series Thunderbolts, Sentry is expected to transform individuals into shadows. As we approach Phase Six, it seems like the atmosphere may be taking a more ominous turn.
Do you think Thunderbolts* will bring a Dark Reign to the MCU? Sound off in the comments.
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2025-03-09 00:42