Marvel fans are still reeling from the news that Namor the Sub-Mariner’s film rights are back at Marvel Studios. It sure sounds exciting, but it remains to be seen how he will be introduced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Stop The Press, What Is That?
During an appearance on Fatman On Batman, Joe Quesada told Kevin Smith the Namor film rights had reverted back to Marvel. Universal Studios previously held distribution rights to the film property for several years, but no real progress took place on the proposed movie. In 2006, Chris Columbus had been attached to direct. Despite Smith’s inquiries, Quesada did not elaborate on when we can expect to see Namor joining the MCU.
Hero To Villain To Antihero
As an hero, Namor has fought with the Avengers from time to time. He has also served as a recurring antagonist of the Fantastic Four, even vying for the love of Sue Storm Richards/Invisible Woman. In recent years, however, he has been a helpful ally to the team. Since Fox is not letting Fantastic Four go, it is unlikely we’ll see the team take on Namor.
In the MCU, the Avengers have currently split into two factions at the end of Captain America: Civil War. Even if Namor would be introduced now, it is unknown which team Namor would side with. Would Marvel incorporate him into a future Avengers movie? Or is an origin story more likely?
Marvel Studios has begun Phase Three with Captain America: Civil War introducing the likes of Black Panther and Spider-Man. Doctor Strange will be released in November. Based on these recent events, it is likely Marvel does not want to rush Namor onto the big screen. This is probably for the best, considering hurried productions lead to mixed results.
