A new screenwriter is apparently overhauling the script for Marvel Studios’ much anticipated Blade movie, which stars Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali. The announcement comes shortly after Bassam Tariq, who was the original director of the movie but is now an executive producer, announced his resignation.
Blade from Marvel Studios was initially introduced in 2019 at San Diego Comic-Con. At the renowned Hall H, Ali himself ascended the stage wearing a baseball cap bearing the Blade emblem. Naturally, Ali will take on the title role of the half-human, half-vampire vampire slayer who was first depicted in Marvel Comics. In the same-named 1998 movie starring Wesley Snipes in a role that would go on to primarily define his career, the character was first adapted for the big screen. Blade II was released in 2002, while Blade: Trinity came out in 2004. Until Marvel Studios revealed the upcoming movie featuring Ali, the character has not been adapted for the big screen.
The development of the upcoming Blade movie, which is set for release in theaters next year, has already encountered a number of setbacks, including the loss of its original director. Just weeks before production starts, the movie’s script is reportedly being entirely reworked from top to bottom by a new screenwriter. The movie’s initial script was written by Stacy Osei-Kuffour; X-Men ’97 and Moon Knight author Beau DeMayo has now taken her place. Osei-script, Kuffour’s according to The Direct, was predominantly set in the 1920s and featured European vampires, with suggestions that the plot would jump around to various eras. Uncertainty exists around how much of the original script will be included in the finished picture now that DeMayo has taken Osei-Kuffour’s place.
