Black Widow star Scarlet Johansson feels that the upcoming MCU film deserves its summer blockbuster spot. The character has been a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe since Iron Man 2 back in 2010. Unlike the majority of her male costars (sorry Hawkeye), Natasha Romanoff has yet to star in her own movie. While rumors had been circulating that one was in the works for quite some time, Black Widow’s release date was finally confirmed in July.

Not too much has been revealed about Black Widow’s plot, but we do know it will take place between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. The script was written by Jack Schaeffer and Ned Benson, with Cate Shortland serving as the MCU’s first solo female director. It’s unclear if Jeremy Renner’s Hawkeye will cameo, but the reveal of Natasha’s white costume teases the possibility of Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier making an appearance. Apparently, a few seconds of leaked footage does evoke a tone similar to Captain America: Winter Soldier.

In an interview with THR, Johansson explained that Black Widow deserves its May 1, 2020 release date. The actress, who is also an executive producer on the film, was asked about the summer opening slot, which is typically reserved for movies centering on male characters. Johansson responded, “The movie packs a big punch. If that slot is reserved for movies that pack a big punch, then we’re in a good, good space.”

Black Widow’s cast will include Rachel Weisz as Malina Vostokoff, better known to comic fans as Iron Maiden. David Harbour will appear as Red Guardian and Florence Pugh is portraying Yelena Belova. The villain of the piece has been confirmed as Taskmaster, but there hasn’t been an announcement as to who is playing him, leaving fans with some theories as to who might be under his trademark mask.

It’s important to note that Black Widow will officially begin the MCU’s Phase Four. Of the twenty-three movies that preceded it, Captain Marvel was the only other female-fronted film. The immense success of movies such as Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel have completely demolished the outdated idea that a woman can’t carry a superhero film. Johansson’s performance has been praised since Avengers - Iron Man 2 didn’t really do the character or the actress justice. After seeing her sidelined for years, fans are overjoyed that Black Widow will finally bring Natasha into the MCU spotlight.

Next: What The Winter Soldier’s Role In Black Widow Could Be

Source: THR

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