[This article may contain SPOILERS for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2]
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Now that Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has begun, thanks to Captain America: Civil War, Marvel can focus on moving forward with their production slate. The comic book movie powerhouse has its sights set on the mystical realm of Doctor Strange next. After that, Marvel is headed back into outer space for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.
Currently shooting, the James Gunn-helmed sequel will bring new questions and answers into the MCU. In specific, it will reveal the true origins of Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill/Star-Lord and his father, played by none other than Kurt Russell.
And it looks as though, Gunn and crew have already wrapped things up with Russell. A recent tweet from the director notes, with a bittersweet wistfulness that shooting with the veteran actor has finished. And Gunn isn’t the only one sad to see him go. Star-Lord actor Pratt also expressed his dismay at watching Russell leave the set.
And that’s a wrap on Kurt Russell on #GOTGVol2. A true talent and pleasure in every way. I will admit to a small tear in my eye.— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) May 11, 2016
You're not the only one cryin'. Kurt Russell is the fucking best. https://t.co/nZVBX3Tjpy— chris pratt (@prattprattpratt) May 11, 2016
With Russell’s part of the shoot complete, it means an intriguing subplot has come to a close, one which could be a major story arc of the GoTG sequel. Gunn’s statements that Vol. 2 will be more personal, a “story about fathers,” led to all sorts of speculation about which direction Marvel would take with Russell's character. Star-Lord’s father has been rumored to be Kree officer Mar-Vell (the original Captain Marvel), setting the stage for the late-Phase 3 standalone film – although Gunn denied this speculation. Additional theories pointed to a possible mirroring from the comics and the animated Guardians series.
In the comic books, Quill’s father is J’Son, the leader of the Spartoi Empire. If this is the case in the film, Russell also could wind up playing a villainous role in a future sequel – as J’Son breaks bad as Mister Knife in later story lines. However, Gunn has denied that Star-Lord’s lineage follows the Guardians of the Galaxy comic story arc. He also insists that Vol. 2 is less about plot twists and more about the story of Quill finding his roots.
Of course, regarding any of the rumors, Gunn could be blowing smoke to protect his reveal. Either way, it will be fascinating to find out what he has in store for Star-Lord's paternal side. It will also be great to see Kurt Russell take part in the MCU. Hopefully, it won’t be for the last time either.
Captain America: Civil War is in theaters now. Doctor Strange opens November 4, 2016; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 – May 5, 2017; Spider-Man: Homecoming – July 7, 2017; Thor: Ragnarok – November 3, 2017; Black Panther – February 16, 2018; Avengers: Infinity War Part 1 – May 4, 2018; Ant-Man and the Wasp – July 6, 2018; Captain Marvel – March 8, 2019; Avengers: Infinity War Part 2– May 3, 2019; and as-yet untitled Marvel movies on July 12, 2019, and on May 1, July 10, and November 6 in 2020.
Source: Twitter