Discovering the Marvel Comic That Sets Up Avengers: Doomsday

It dawned on me that a classic graphic novel from the 1980s might be essential to the trajectory of Marvel’s anticipated blockbuster, Avengers: Doomsday. While Robert Downey Jr.’s casting evokes memories of the Infamous Iron Man, it’s actually Emperor Doom by David Michelinie and Bob Hall that appears to set the groundwork for Doctor Doom’s ambitious multiversal maneuvers in Avengers: Secret Wars.

In the early narratives surrounding Doctor Doom, he was primarily positioned as a formidable, albeit localized, antagonist to the Fantastic Four.Emperor Doom marked a pivotal moment, as it showcased Doom achieving a level of power that allowed him to conquer the Earth itself, presenting him as a universal threat rather than simply a foe to the Fantastic Four.

The cover to Emperor Doom, featuring Doctor Doom looming over a team of Avengers

While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has not prominently featured characters like the Purple Man in recent narratives, the potential for such characters makes the idea of drawing from Emperor Doom all the more enticing for the upcoming film.

How Might Emperor Doom Serve as a Blueprint for Avengers: Doomsday?

An Analysis of Marvel Graphic Novel #27 by David Michelinie, Bob Hall, and Bill Oakley

Currently, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s interpretation of Doctor Doom remains largely enigmatic. Besides Robert Downey Jr.taking on the role as the adversary in the next two Avengers films, there is little confirmed information. This air of mystery surrounding the character has, however, sparked considerable fan speculation regarding potential narrative influences. Surprisingly, Emperor Doom has not been a major focal point in these discussions, although it certainly warrants attention.

As the MCU has shown a willingness to diverge from established comic lore, it’s crucial to explore the rich character arcs and thematic depth that Emperor Doom presents. This graphic novel is filled with compelling moments that could resonate well in the cinematic adaptation.

Overview of Emperor Doom: Key Events and Characters

The Role of Wonder Man

In the context of the MCU’s multiverse, it seems fitting to incorporate some elements from the Emperor Doom storyline. At its core, the narrative revolves around Doctor Doom’s relentless manipulation of humanity, transforming the world into a utopia devoid of crime and conflict—albeit through coercive means. Wonder Man emerges as one of the few individuals unaffected by Doom’s mind control, tasked with rallying fellow Avengers to combat Doom and restore free will.

This storyline introduces a fascinating twist, as Doom’s seemingly noble goals echo the complex motivations of the MCU’s Thanos. Unlike traditional villainy, Doom’s quest portrays a darker shade of ambition that prioritizes order over freedom.

In the conflict, Doom employs his willpower to subjugate the Purple Man, leveraging his abilities for global mind control. By binding the Purple Man to a colossal crystal, Doom is able to extend his manipulative reach worldwide. In a strategic maneuver, Wonder Man wisely targets those Avengers with the strongest wills, enhancing their potential to resist mind control and confront Doom effectively.

Exploring Other Influential Marvel Comics for Downey’s Doctor Doom Characterization

Anticipations for Avengers: Doomsday

Details surrounding the plot of Avengers: Doomsday remain largely under wraps. However, two significant comic storylines are on fans’ radar. One noteworthy possibility is the Infamous Iron Man arc created by Brian Michael Bendis, Alex Maleev, and Stefano Caselli, where Victor Von Doom temporarily embodies the mantle of Iron Man. The complex relationship between Doom and Iron Man underscores their history as adversaries and reluctant allies within various realities.

Even more compelling than Infamous Iron Man is the potential connection to Secret Wars, a monumental event series penned by Jonathan Hickman and illustrated by Esad Ribić. This arc features Doctor Doom at its forefront, navigating a narrative that collapses and intertwines Marvel’s multiverse. Given that Joe and Anthony Russo have signaled their intention to helm a project centered around Secret Wars, it seems highly likely that the two-part saga commencing with Avengers: Doomsday will ultimately lead into Secret Wars, showcasing Downey’s Doctor Doom.

For audiences eager to delve deeper into the lore, Emperor Doom—also recognized as Marvel Graphic Novel #27—is currently available from Marvel Comics.

Source & Images