New Marvel films are set to conquer 2014. Really, all of them?

Marvel Film Studio's "Phase 2" releases

By: Gere Iverson - MSTv

Its no surprise to anyone that Marvel is the hit-maker of the comic-book movie genre. Having built up their 52 (though, technically its more like 75) year history of producing tragic heroes that appeal to the everyman, Marvel offers closer wish-fulfillment, usually, then their "distinguished competition."  

That being so, after the incredible success of the “The Avengers” and the popularity of the individual superhero movies that built up to it, (called Marvel Studios’s Phase 1) anticipation for the launch of  “Phase 2” ran at a fever pitch.  But, could this new batch of upcoming film releases copy the magic of the first wave?

Phase 2 began with Iron Man 3; meaning the project launched with a good start. But, will the streak continue?  Let's take a brief look:

1. “Iron Man 3”? It’s a certified blockbuster that had a huge $175-million opening weekend.

2. “Thor: The Dark World?” It appears a “Game of Thrones” director in the realm of Asgard should be a good mix.

3. “Captain America: The Winter Soldier?” Bucky’s back? That certainly bodes well.

4. "Ant-Man?" Thoughts of a mini-crimefighter busting heads with an army of ants? Could be "This is the End" funny.

5. But if there was one wild card in the bunch, it came in the announcement that Phase 2 would also feature a film called “Guardians of the Galaxy.”  Huh???  Who the hell are they??

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These guys will protect the galaxy? Run!!

The hardcore fanboy might be familiar with Marvel’s multiple comic-book versions of GOTG, but the casual comic-book fan? Even non-comics readers know who Steve Rogers, Tony Stark and Bruce Banner are. But what about Peter Quill/Star-Lord, Gamora or Rocket Racoon? 

To the uninitiated, The Guardians of the Galaxy are a team of proactive, but misfit, interstellar heroes protecting the galaxy, rather than reacting to crises as they happen.

But after one look at the photo to the left, would you think such characters might assure the same blockbuster reception previous Marvel submissions have garnered?

Well, Marvel and Disney are betting on this almost as much as its holding faith J.J. Abrams can preserve the Star Wars mythos for new generations.  Adios George Lucas, while you yell out "suckers" all the way to the bank!

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Although Marvel could easily just trust the success they’ve had adapting multiple properties to the big screen, they’ve taken a smart approach with GOTG, accounting for the fact that the characters in this space tale aren’t as recognizable as their big guns.

But if that’s not enough reason to even give GOTC a chance, Marvel is making sure the film packs star-power along with modern comics.

Chris Pratt (from “Zero Dark Thirty”) has signed on to play Peter Quill; Zoe Saldana was recently announced to be playing Gamora; and Dave Bautista will play the muscle of the team, Drax the Destroyer.

So, if their gamble pays off, 2014 might seal the deal on Marvel's current hold on comic/film domination.  Because if they can make a hit out of a second-rate Like Skywalker and crew, what possibly can stop them?

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