Marvel’s long-anticipated Blade movie may still be in limbo, but let’s not forget about the other chance we had at a vampire flick from the Marvel universe—yes, we’re talking about the much-discussed Dr. Michael Morbius. It’s fascinating to think that renowned director Ari Aster of Midsommar and Hereditary fame was once considered for the role of director for this intriguing spin-off. Imagine how different the film landscape could have been!
Recently, Aster revealed during an interview on Semafor’s Mixed Signals podcast that he was indeed approached by Marvel to direct Morbius. It’s worth noting that while Morbius is part of the Sony universe, it stands apart from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This distinction adds a unique layer of complexity to the franchise.
Bringing Aster on board seems like a promising prospect, especially considering the horror aspect inherent in any vampire tale. When Semafor’s Max Welltani expressed disappointment over what could have been, and pointed out the mixed box office performance of Morbius, Aster quipped, “We could’ve added it to my list.”
“I feel like I shouldn’t say. Should I?” @maxwelltani asks director Ari Aster about a rumor that he was asked to do a Marvel movie on Mixed Signals from Semafor Media: pic.twitter.com/TcAmpCttXZ
— Semafor (@semafor) July 18, 2025
Interestingly, the film’s internet notoriety initially sparked curiosity; despite its lackluster opening weekend, it ignited an online frenzy. The film’s unexpected viral sensation, along with Jared Leto’s portrayal of Morbius, led to a theatrical re-release spurred by a wave of memes. Even though these elements didn’t elevate the film to a classic status, it highlights Marvel’s ability to create buzz, even inadvertently.
Sony’s attempts to shift responsibility for the film’s criticisms have been a recurring theme, but director Daniel Espinosa addressed these critiques candidly in a 2022 interview. He stated, “Look, I have a lot of self-hatred so I have a lot of criticism of my own work. I’m always trying to focus on being better. But I am also proud of what I do.”
When officials from Uproxx asked Espinosa how much creative control he actually had over Morbius, he explained, “I think that I work at my best if I get a lot of decision power.” He added that big productions often involve different processes, which might influence the final product.
This brings us back to Ari Aster’s escape from the Morbius saga. Many would agree it was a near-miss that allowed him to continue crafting unique horror narratives without the burden of a film that, for many, missed its mark.
Is there a possibility of future vampire films tied to the Marvel franchise? The genre, enriched by Aster’s vision, could have offered thrilling storytelling avenues. Who knows what creative heights could be reached if acerbic humor and horror were intertwined in future Marvel products!
What can we learn about the artistic choices made in the superhero genre? The intersection of horror and superhero stories could lead to compelling narratives that challenge both genres. Imagine the insights Aster could contribute in a film that genuinely explores the darker sides of superhero mythology.
What does the failure of Morbius teach us about online fandom? The internet has a way of revitalizing films not always appreciated at their release. It showcases the power of memes, virality, and community enthusiasm in influencing film culture.
What’s next for semi-independent Marvel films? There are ongoing speculations about crossovers and synergistic projects within Sony’s Spider-Man universe that could redefine the superhero experience.
In conclusion, the possibilities for unique storylines in the vampire and superhero genres are vast. With creative directors on the rise, we can only hope to see more innovative takes on beloved characters. Be sure to stay updated on upcoming releases from Marvel, Star Wars, and many more cinematic universes. Dive deeper into more articles on Moyens I/O!