Avengers 2: Black Panther, Doctor Strange, And The Next Phase For Marvel Features Darker Heroes

The next phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe will feature darker characters, but not necessarily anti-heroes. Doctor Strange and Black Panther have the strongest chances for a silver screen appearance.

The next Marvel movie to be released is "Thor: The Dark World" which is right on schedule for Phase 2. "Guardians of the Galaxy" was quite unexpected, but the choice presents the cosmic phase of Marvel. It was assumed that Marvel would pursue this phase because of the Thanos teaser at the end of "The Avengers" but the sequel was confirmed to be "Avengers: Age of Ultron." It is strongly hinted that it will concentrate on Iron Man's tech issues.

Doctor Strange is one of the more illustrious characters in the Marvel Universe. As the sorcerer supreme, he would be able to make the transition from 'earthbound' adventures to 'cosmic' ones. However, the Doctor Strange movie is strictly in development. Yet the demand for a character is solid, and the speculations have started with names of Johnny Depp (a Disney talent) and Hugh Laurie as possibilities.

However, the Black Panther movie seems more promising. Black Panther is the monarch of Wakanda, a Central African country. Astute viewers have seen a shot of the SHIELD map with a highlighted African nation, believed to be Wakanda.

There are also rumors that voice talents in "Guardians of the Galaxy" will also play real characters in other movies. Vin Diesel has already confirmed that his Guardians stint is only the beginning. Another Guardian, Djimon Honsou is rumored for the Panther part. In an interview with the Toronto Sun: "It would be an honor to be T'Challa," Hounsou said. "It would have to be done right, given the history of that character and that comic." I have a foot in the Marvel comics world now," Hounsou said, referring to his role as Korath in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy. "So we'll see where they're going to take that."