Hickman finds Avengers Doomsday cut fascinating
The Wizardry of the Multiverse: How a Comics Legend Shapes the MCU
When we talk about the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we’re talking about cosmic collisions, epic stakes, and a cast that feels like it was pulled from every corner of fiction. But behind the spectacle of films like Avengers: Doomsday lies a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, and a key player in this universe is the legendary writer and artist, Jonathan Hickman.
With nearly two decades woven into the fabric of Marvel, Hickman doesn’t just tell stories; he actively shapes them. Beyond creating some of the most beloved comic runs, he brings his deep understanding of narrative structure directly into the cinematic sphere, consulting on MCU scripts ahead of filming. This isn’t just passive involvement; Hickman reportedly reads scripts and watches the movies in development, offering insights that are invaluable to the studios.
When asked about the process of developing major projects, Hickman shared some truly remarkable observations. Regarding the development of Doomsday, he noted how fascinating it was to watch the story evolve over two and a half years. He highlighted a major shift during the process, noting the return of key characters and the involvement of familiar faces, which only heightened his excitement for the direction the project was taking.
Hickman’s fascination deepened when discussing the actual filmmaking process. He admitted that he never saw a final cut of the film, only works in progress. What he found most captivating was the technical evolution: he had never seen a movie while it was being worked on, meaning he witnessed the process of building worlds from scratch, even seeing scenes where special effects were not yet added, before finally seeing the completed version. He described the transition from raw concept to polished final product as something bordering on wizardry.
The resulting cinematic event, Avengers: Doomsday, is a testament to this layered approach. Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the film pits heroes from three distinct universes against an existential threat. The ensemble cast is stacked with familiar and new faces, including Chris Evans as Steve Rogers, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Anthony Mackie as Captain America, and Paul Rudd as Ant-Man, alongside established characters like Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr.
Hickman’s influence is undeniable, stemming from his deep connection to the source material. His celebrated runs on the Fantastic Four and the Avengers, which led into the pivotal Avengers: Secret Wars event, serve as foundational inspiration for the narrative themes seen in this new cinematic era. By bringing his expertise to the consultation table, Hickman ensures that the sprawling mythology of the Marvel universe remains creatively rich and impactful.
Avengers: Doomsday is set to hit cinemas in the US on December 18, though audiences in other regions will get access a little earlier on December 16. Keep an eye out for more updates on the upcoming Marvel movies and television shows that continue to expand this incredible universe.
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