Marvel Us Disney Episode 77: Spider-Man 3, Hellstrom, and Marvel Zombies

Marvel Collectibles and COVID-19 Delays

• 🛡️ The discussion begins with a look at the Captain America shield collectible, comparing a 75th-anniversary metal edition to a newer, likely plastic, replica tied to "Falcon and the Winter Soldier."
• 📅 Production delays due to COVID-19 impacted the planned release schedule for Marvel's Disney+ series, including "Falcon and the Winter Soldier" and "WandaVision," as well as theatrical releases like "Black Widow."
• 🍔 McDonald's Happy Meal toys tied to these delayed releases are also mentioned, prompting a discussion on the value and purpose of collectibles.

Review of "Hellstrom" Series

• 👻 The Hulu series "Hellstrom" is described as a "spooky X-Files" with a "monster of the week" feel, but lacking genuine fear or suspense.
• 😈 The show's attempt to downplay the demonic origins by attributing the siblings' powers to a serial killer father is questioned, with a cliffhanger suggesting a potential Season 2.
• 🎬 The hosts compare it to older shows like "Kolchak: The Night Stalker," noting that "Hellstrom" didn't quite capture the same essence and is unlikely to warrant a renewal.

Spider-Man 3 and Multiverse Theories

• 🕸️ The casting of Jamie Foxx in "Spider-Man 3" is discussed, with a preference for him playing a new version of Electro rather than a repeat of his "Amazing Spider-Man 2" role.
• 🧙 Benedict Cumberbatch joining as Doctor Strange fuels speculation about a multiverse storyline, potentially involving previous Spider-Man actors like Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield.
• 🍦 The extensive use of Marvel characters in Spider-Man films is likened to an overwhelming amount of ice cream, suggesting a potential dilution of the core character.
• 🎬 "Spider-Man 3" is expected to serve as a bridge between "WandaVision" and "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness," exploring the impact of Wanda's actions on Peter Parker's reality.

The Future of Movie Theaters and Disney+ Releases

• 😷 The impact of COVID-19 on movie theaters is a major concern, with discussions on how chains like AMC are struggling financially.
• 💡 Innovative ideas for reopening theaters include private screenings for families and text-based snack ordering to minimize human interaction.
• 📱 The generational shift towards streaming and mobile viewing is noted as a challenge for the traditional cinema experience.
• 💰 Disney's release strategy for "Mulan" on Disney+ is critiqued for its premium pricing, leading to a discussion about the company's evolving approach to digital sales and 4K upgrades.

Marvel Zombies and Comic Book Releases

• 🧟 The "Marvel Zombies" comic series, created by Robert Kirkman, is highlighted for its dark premise of zombified superheroes retaining their powers.
• 🩸 The graphic nature of the series is emphasized, including a particularly disturbing depiction of what Peter Parker might have done to Mary Jane and Aunt May.
• 💥 The popularity of "Marvel Zombies" has led to similar series from other publishers, like DC's "Deceased."
• 📺 A "Marvel Zombies" animated episode is planned for Disney+'s "What If...?" series, offering a potential entry point for the concept.