As the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) approaches a significant narrative shift post-Phase Six, the upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars offers a chance for Marvel Studios to reshape its storytelling landscape. This anticipated release could not only redefine its multiverse but potentially retcon certain aspects of its past that have received mixed reviews from fans and industry observers alike.
The inconsistency in the MCU has led to certain projects being celebrated, while others leave fans questioning the quality of adaptations. Avengers: Secret Wars presents a vital opportunity for Marvel Studios to correct what many consider missteps — paving the way for improved character arcs and more refined storytelling. Retcons are a standard practice in comic book storytelling, making the idea of disregarding less favorable entries palatable to fans.
Loki stands out as a fan-favorite series that magnificently transformed the narrative of its titular character, evolving him from villain to complex hero. Nevertheless, unresolved issues related to characters like He Who Remains and Victor Timely have dampened the excitement surrounding their arcs. Given the storyline’s recent focuses and the challenges surrounding Jonathan Majors, addressing these characters through retconning could enhance narrative coherence within the broader Multiverse Saga.
Moreover, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, while enjoyable, suffered from tonal dissonance that separated it from other MCU narratives. Characters such as Abomination and the Wrecking Crew did not resonate with audiences as intended. Amidst rumors regarding Tatiana Maslany’s dissatisfaction with Disney, it might be beneficial for the franchise to consider retconning this show, allowing for a fresh take on this beloved character in future projects.
Spider-Man: No Way Home dramatically altered Peter Parker’s path, culminating in his profound loss with Aunt May’s death. As the character prepares for a new beginning in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, many fans hope for a narrative retcon to reinstate her presence. The MCU has a history of resurrecting beloved characters, and doing so with Aunt May could facilitate Peter’s growth while keeping his support system intact.
Fans have not forgotten the abrupt, controversial conclusion of Wanda Maximoff in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Many believe that her storyline was insufficiently closed, creating a desire for her return. With rumors of character reappearances in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, a retcon to revive the Scarlet Witch could serve as a highly welcomed redemption arc.
Eternals was intended to usher in a new chapter within the MCU, yet failed to engage audiences satisfactorily, leaving its characters largely unexplored. Given their immense power and the implications of their actions during monumental events such as Thanos’s campaign, many are calling for this movie to be erased from the continuity to restore a sense of consistency and relevance in the MCU.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was expected to be pivotal in introducing Kang the Conqueror, but instead fell short, compounded by Jonathan Majors’s controversies. Viewers are not only critical of this entry for its CGI and writing but are also willing to see it retired from MCU history. A narrative purification in Avengers: Secret Wars might eliminate this less favorable experience.
The portrayal of Thor in Thor: Love & Thunder was disappointing to many fans, as the intended humor overshadowed dramatic moments crucial to character development. This film presents another opportunity for retcon, potentially bringing Gorr and Jane Foster back into a more significant context during the upcoming multiversal conflict.
Finally, Secret Invasion has proven to be a particularly underwhelming project within the MCU, failing to capture the scope of its source material. With fans and the studio seemingly moving past this series, a strategic retcon could allow for a fresh and faithful adaptation in future projects, restoring enthusiasm among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Based on reporting by Mayra Garcia. Read the full story at https://www.cbr.com/avengers-secret-wars-mcu-retcon-wishlist/.
