Armor Wars is an upcoming superhero film based on the Marvel Comics storyline and is a sequel to Secret Invasion and Ironheart. It will be an installment of the MCU.
Recently, Secret Invasion took a surprising turn for Don Cheadle’s character in the MCU as it revealed that he had been replaced by a Skrull, likely since his severe injury during the airport battle in Captain America: Civil War.
This revelation during the Disney+ series paved the way for Cheadle’s first standalone movie in the MCU, Armor Wars. Originally planned as a series, it’s now becoming a theatrical feature. However, Rhodey’s Secret Invasion retcon has caused a setback.
Also read: Marvel Villain Wronged by $1.4B Avengers Movie Reportedly Not Getting Redemption Arc in Armor Wars
Secret Invasion Affects Armor Wars, Causing Setback in Development
Lt. Col. James “Rhodey” Rhodes’ debut in 2008’s Iron Man marks his entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Initially played by Terrence Howard, the role was later taken over by Don Cheadle in 2010’s Iron Man 2. In this movie, audiences saw Tony Stark’s best friend finally put on the War Machine armor with assistance from Stark’s industry rival, Justin Hammer.
After taking over the role, Don Cheadle has made Lt. Col. Rhodes his own character. He has been featured in six other movies, and counting the post-credits scene for Captain Marvel, it’s seven. His appearances include films like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, a brief spot in the Disney+ series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and he also showed up in the latest Disney+ series, Secret Invasion.
However, he has not yet starred in his own standalone film. This is about to change with Armor Wars, where he’ll finally step out of Tony Stark’s shadow and establish himself as a hero with his own rights. But here’s the catch. Rhodey’s involvement in Secret Invasion has caused a setback due to retcon. A spellbinding aspect of Marvel’s Secret Invasion revealed a twist that Colonel James Rhodes, also known as Rhodey, has turned into a villain.
In general, the fact is, the revelation that Rhodey was a Skrull during the events of Infinity War and Endgame hasn’t been well-received by fans. Many feel that this retcon negatively impacted both movies, especially War Machine’s involvement in them after the reveal.
As Marvel Studios prepares for Rhodey’s first standalone movie in Armor Wars, they face a setback. They’ll need to work on re-engaging the audience with Rhodey’s character, as his recent portrayal has left a negative impression on Marvelites.
Also read: Armor Wars Gets Major Update after Robert Downey Jr Reportedly Spotted on ‘Captain America 4’ Set
When Will Armor Wars Release?
While Armor Wars‘ release date is yet to be announced, it was revealed at D23 2022 that the release would follow Secret Invasion and connect closely with it. In Secret Invasion, Rhodey was replaced by a hidden Skrull for years before the real Rhodey returned. This is a big change, and Armor Wars will probably center on War Machine’s return to regular life after these events.
There is so much work that has to be done with Armor Wars. It is also in need of progress in terms of hiring. Based on public reports, the movie has not yet secured a director or cast members beyond Don Cheadle. Although, Marvel Studios has scheduled its upcoming untitled movies for release in 2026 on February 13, July 14, and November 6. These dates will be accompanied by the release of Avengers: The Kang Dynasty on May 1.
So, Armor Wars has yet to set an official release date.
Source: The Direct
