Aaron Pierre, known for starring in Syfy’s Krypton and M. Night Shyamalan’s Old, has joined the cast of Blade, Marvel Studios’ new adaptation of the character who first appeared in the 1973 comic Tomb of Dracula No.10.
Marvel Studios announced its plans to reboot Blade and integrate the character into the MCU during a San Diego Comic-Con panel in 2019. At the time, the company also revealed that two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali would be starring as the memorable half-vampire half-human vampire hunter, although Wesley Snipes had previously expressed his interest in reprising the role.
Unfortunately, fans may have to wait longer to learn more information, as Deadline reports details regarding Pierre’s role are being kept under wraps. In addition to Pierre and Ali, Delroy Lindo is also set to appear in the upcoming film. Further details regarding casting and release date remain unclear, although it is known that Bassam Tariq (Mogul Mowgli) is on board to direct. Watchmen screenwriter Stacy Osei-Kuffoir penned the script, while Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige is set to produce.
The first adaptation of Blade was released in 1998 and starred Snipes as the titular character. Stephen Dorff, Kris Kristofferson, and N’Bushe Wright appear in supporting roles. The superhero horror film, which became a box office hit and received mostly positive reviews, spawned two sequels: 2002’s Blade II and 2004’s Blade: Trinity. While all three of the Blade films achieved success, the third installment is regarded as the worst of the trilogy and currently has a 25% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Although an official synopsis for the forthcoming project has yet to be announced, an alleged production listing that leaked last year may provide insight into the MCU’s take on Blade. According to the Blade synopsis, the reboot will stay true to its source material, following Eric Brooks/Blade as hunts the undead that have long terrorized mankind and who are responsible for the tragic death of his mother, who died at the hands of a vampire while giving birth —thus, granting Eric his special abilities. The listing goes on to say that production is scheduled to begin in late summer.
After its release, Blade will become Marvel’s second vampire film following Morbius, which is expected to debut in April. The project, starring Jared Leto, tells the story of Michael Morbius (aka the Living Vampire), a doctor who becomes a vampire after trying a dangerous and experimental cure for a rare blood disease.
Blade is currently in development at Marvel Studios.
Source: Deadline
