Anthony Mackie Promises ‘Old Marvel Feeling’ in Avengers Doomsday, RDJ Returns as Victor Von Doom

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Los Angeles, April 15, 2025 – In what could be one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the decade, Marvel’s upcoming feature Avengers: Doomsday is set to bring back the “old Marvel feeling”, according to lead actor Anthony Mackie. The actor confirmed in an interview that the Russo Brothers’ next superhero ensemble promises to recapture the magic that once defined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The Comeback of the Russo Brothers and MCU Icons

Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the film is scheduled to release on May 1, 2026, and will serve as a spiritual successor to Avengers: Endgame (2019).

In an interview quoted by Variety and IGN, Mackie said:

“Everybody’s excited. I feel with the script and having the Russo brothers back, it’s going to be great. It’s going to give the audience that old Marvel feeling that they always had.”

This marks the Russo Brothers’ first Avengers project since Endgame, raising expectations for a cinematic spectacle featuring high stakes and emotional payoff.

RDJ Returns – But Not as Tony Stark

A major shocker that thrilled fans during the San Diego Comic-Con 2024 was the announcement that Robert Downey Jr. will return — but not as Iron Man.

Instead, he will take on the role of Dr. Victor Von Doom, one of Marvel’s most iconic villains. This casting has sparked immense curiosity among MCU loyalists and comic book purists alike.

Confirmed Cast So Far

The ensemble is one of Marvel’s most ambitious since Endgame, featuring both returning heroes and newer additions:

• Anthony Mackie as Captain America
• Chris Hemsworth as Thor
• Sebastian Stan as The Winter Soldier
• Paul Rudd as Ant-Man
• Tom Hiddleston as Loki
• Letitia Wright as Black Panther
• Wyatt Russell as U.S. Agent
• Simu Liu as Shang-Chi
• Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova

The film is expected to bridge gaps between multiple MCU storylines, tying together the post-Endgame Phase 4 and Phase 5 narratives into a climactic confrontation.

Why “Old Marvel Feeling” Matters

The statement from Mackie comes at a time when Marvel has faced criticism over its recent releases, with some fans citing fatigue and lack of narrative cohesion in newer phases. His promise of a return to classic MCU storytelling suggests a pivot back to:

• Character-driven arcs
• Strong ensemble dynamics
• Emotional resonance mixed with humor and action

Industry observers say Marvel is “going back to its roots” with Doomsday, focusing less on experimentation and more on the formula that originally captured audiences worldwide.

Fan Anticipation and Box Office Stakes

Following lukewarm responses to The Marvels and Quantumania, Avengers: Doomsday is being seen as a make-or-break moment for the MCU. With the Russo Brothers and Robert Downey Jr. back in the fold, fan anticipation is surging.

“This could be the reset Marvel desperately needs,” said Hollywood analyst Sarah Menon. “The original formula, reimagined with new stakes, may be their safest and smartest move yet.”

Avengers Reassembled, With a Twist

With Anthony Mackie leading the charge, Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Marvel projects to date. Whether it can live up to the golden legacy of Infinity War and Endgame remains to be seen, but the ingredients — returning icons, beloved directors, and high-stakes storytelling — are all in place.

Stay tuned to Hindustan Herald for exclusive coverage of MCU developments, cast reveals, and behind-the-scenes updates as the Avengers: Doomsday countdown begins.

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