When it was announced that “Blade” would be getting remade and put in the MCU, fans were concerned about a number of things. Would it be largely connected to the various ‘Avengers’-level events or would it exist in its own horror-filled world? And would it be R-rated like the original Wesley Snipes-led films? Well, we’re not quite sure about that first question, but we finally have an answer for the second.
In a new interview with Deadline, “Blade” filmmaker Yann Demange has finally confirmed that Marvel Studios is giving him an R-rating for his version of the vampire superhero film. It appears that “Deadpool 3” is truly opening the doors for more adult-rated films in the MCU, and that means “Blade” can slice and dice vampires in the bloody, gorey ways he deserves. The filmmaker also mentioned how it gives him the opportunity to showcase a different side of lead actor Mahershala Ali.
“They gave me the R, which is so important,” Demange said. “But for ‘Blade,’ we are going to have fun because Mahershala is such a deep actor. I’m excited to show a kind of ruthlessness, a roughness he has, that allows him to walk the earth in a particular way. I love him for that. He’s got a dignity and integrity, but there is a ferocity there that he usually keeps under the surface. I want to unleash that and put it on the screen.”
Now, we can’t really talk about “Blade” right now without discussing the reports of behind-the-scenes troubles. The film has gone through a number of complete rewrites, with reports of a sixth attempt at a new script in the works now. The film has been delayed multiple times, and there were even rumors of Ali departing. However, with Demange attached (replacing Bassam Tariq), it seems as if “Blade” can finally get in front of cameras after the SAG strike wraps up.
As of now, “Blade” is currently set with a February 14, 2025 release.