Marvel is working on its first Asian-led superhero movie, according to reports.
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Shang-Chi is set to be the first film to feature an Asian protagonist in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and, according to Deadline, work on the project has now been fast-tracked.
The titular superhero first appeared in the Marvel comic series in December 1973. He is the son of Fu Manchu and was raised in a compound closed off from the rest of the world. There, he was trained in martial arts (he is often referred to as the Master of Kung Fu) and, later, was sent out into the world to kill on behalf of his father.
When Shang-Chi discovers Fu Manchu is not the good person he thought he was, he rebels and joins the fight against him.
Although no cast members have been confirmed for the film so far, Chinese-American writer Dave Callaham has been signed up to write the screenplay, while Marvel is said to be looking for either an Asian or Asian-American director.
Last month (November 12), it was confirmed that Marvel boss Stan Lee had died, aged 95. The comic book writer, editor, and publisher was infamous for making cameos in every MCU film.
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige confirmed after Lee’s death that the much-loved figure had already filmed several more cameos. “I’m not going to tell you what [cameos] specifically,” he said. “But Stan always appreciated a good surprise.”
Lee’s agent and director Joe Russo have since affirmed that Lee had already filmed his appearance for Avengers 4, as well as Captain Marvel.