The highly anticipated Marvel's Blade reboot has faced numerous setbacks, sparking considerable speculation about its release. However, recent developments offer a renewed sense of optimism.
Five years after initial announcements, the film remains unreleased, leading to significant criticism of Marvel's handling of the project. Yet, hope persists. Will this cinematic adaptation finally emerge from development hell?
Following a string of negative updates, the Blade reboot is finally receiving some positive news. The Hollywood Reporter indicates that production isn't halting. Initially conceived as a period piece, the reboot now adopts a contemporary setting. Plot specifics remain undisclosed, but a script rewrite is planned for the summer, alongside the search for a new director.
Recent reports suggested the project had returned to the drawing board due to dissatisfaction among key figures, disappointing fans. However, the script is undergoing further revisions, aiming for completion by summer's end. Simultaneously, the team seeks a replacement for Yann Demange, who departed after nearly two years. Successful completion of these changes could revitalize the project, though the rewrites might drastically alter the plot.
The original concept, a 1920s period piece, centered on Blade's daughter, not Blade himself. Mia Goth, as Lilith, was slated as the vampire antagonist targeting the daughter. Marvel Comics features two versions of Lilith—Dracula's daughter and the monstrous Mother of Demons—though the film's iteration remained undefined. The shift to a modern setting likely signifies major narrative adjustments.
Directorial changes stemmed from concerns about director-project compatibility, as evidenced by Bassam Tariq's departure. Star Mahershala Ali, provided with a directorial shortlist by Marvel, conducted his own search, prioritizing filmmakers lacking major studio experience. Ali's vision for the reboot as "his Black Panther" highlights his unwavering commitment. Mia Goth remains attached, though her role's status is unclear. Delroy Lindo and Aaron Pierre, however, are no longer involved, departing following the 2023 writers' and actors' strike. The current release date, November 2025, remains tentative.
Blade is currently slated for release on November 7, 2025.