With Netflix’s first Marvel series DAREDEVIL in production, it looks like the next project on tap will be JESSICA JONES which will then be followed by LUKE CAGE and IRON FIST. But, what will happen then? When the Netflix partnership was first announced, a mini-series based on THE DEFENDERS would unite the four characters, following the same pattern as the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In a recent interview with Empire, Netflix CCO Ted Sarandos reiterated that plan and some more details.
“It was really based on the theatrical model of The Avengers. Could you take another group of characters, The Defenders, and go about it the same way? Normally they do the big movie and then eventually they get to the group origin story. Having 13 hours to tell each of these stories, you can go right to the origin story and the action at the same time.”
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Sarandos also said that there have been discussions about crossing over between THE DEFENDERS and the Marvel Cinematic characters. He did not reveal many details, just that discussions have been had. It seems obvious that Marvel is exploring all options and testing the waters for the potential in these other comic book characters. Sarandos did indicate that there will be a tonal difference between the MCU films and these series.
“The series will not be afraid to go darker than the film did. What we love about this particular set of heroes is that they’re a little more down to Earth. Costume wise and also in that these are gritty crime stories, more in the streets than in the clouds.”
While the series format will allow a deeper exploration of the characters and their development, I would assume these shows, AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D., AGENT CARTER, and the MCU films will all exist in the same fictional universe. Hopefully we do get a crossover at some point or even the introduction of more Marvel heroes on the small screen.
Sarandos said the writer’s room for JESSICA JONES is open and they are looking for a lead. DAREDEVIL will premiere May 2015 on Netflix.
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