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Kick-started in 2008 with prime Robert Downey Jr. taking over as Iron Man, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has come a long way from its roots. What started as a series of interconnected movies soon expanded into one of the entertainment industry’s largest ever following the release of 2012’sThe Avengers.
The ultimate crossover laced with an intricate storyline gave fans a complete look at arguably the best comic book live-action universe, complete with actors that became synonymous with their roles.
The success of such a crossover largely came off the expertise and brainwork of Kevin Feige, John Favreau, and other early leads who had worked in the early age of superhero movies, that started taking shape in the late ‘90s. However, what if that age had happened a bit closer?
How would the gigantic cinematic universe look like if these characters came to the big screens decades earlier and who would have helmed those roles? Fortunately, a fan trailer concept just answered them all and boasted a majority of viewers agreeing in favor.
What if The Avengers came out in the ‘90s?
Ever since Marvel Studios entered its multiverse saga, the possibilities for new storylines, characters, and cameos have become somewhat limitless. Taking advantage of this, a fan named Matthew Anthony took to X (formerly Twitter) and showcased an AI trailer concept depicting some of the ‘90s biggest stars as leading members of the Avengers such asBrad Pittas Captain America andMorgan Freemanas Nick Fury.
90s#AvengersAI Concept Trailer with Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, and more.
(via@StryderHD)pic.twitter.com/7fgwHJOe0Q
— Marvel Multiverse (@MarvelMultive)June 02, 2025
The concept glimpses featured the celebrated actors in equally thought-out costumes maintaining a consistency with the overall aesthetics of prevalent cinema in the ‘90s. Furthermore, it featured a whole new line-up that, while surprising some, fulfilled several others’ desires to have iconic actors likeTom Cruiseas Iron Man,a rumor that floated heavilybeforeDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
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On the other end of the spectrum,Keanu Reevesas the Winter Soldier,Angelina Jolieas Black Widow,Leonardo DiCaprioas Spider-Man,Kevin Costneras Hawkeye,Johnny Deppas Doctor Strange, Dorph Lundgren as Thor,Jim Carreyas Loki, and David Duchovny as the Hulk, among others, delighted fans and gave them their best shot yet at imagination.
Fans love the eye candy and hope for it to become a reality
A long queue of fans expressed their awe at the detailed concept. From retro-themed buildings to accurately depicted expressions on the faces of beloved characters, Anthony left no stone unturned in bringing out true emotions.
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Moreover, several of them expressed a strong likeness for Keanu Reeves as the Winter Soldier and even Denzel Washington. Meanwhile, many also came up with their own suggestions and tips on how to improve this alternate reality.
I’m not gonna lie, the person who made this cooked.
— I have so many questions? (@english_shamar)July 21, 2025
Whoever made this was cookin!!!!!
— PhillyPhanatic🦅® (@Philly2Chicago)July 02, 2025
Keanu Reeves as Winter Soldier is a toptier thingpic.twitter.com/MVFzqyQHkZ
— The Ironborn (@i_m_tab)July 14, 2025
Kevin Costner as Hawkeye would have been great.
— Zodd (@GarishZodd)June 09, 2025
This would be insane if Denzel Washington played black panther & keenu reeves as winter solider would be great characters to watch
— J (@JuiceWeb3)June 05, 2025
Nicely done 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👌🏼 Except perhaps keep Robert Downey as Iron Man. It would still work marvelously.
— JustMe (@LuckyBrie83)July 29, 2025
Denzel is my favorite actor but I’d have Djimon Hounsou as Black panther
— Joose Wayne (@joosewaynex)June 19, 2025
At the face of such a concept, a bright hope of possibility shines in the form ofAvengers: Secret Wars,making all of it a possibility. After a pushback andcurrently lined up for a 2027 release, the highly anticipated movie is expected tofeature several cameos, surprises, and twists. Rumors hold that, alongside the original cast of the MCU, renowned faces will take on roles such as those depicted in the concept.
Imteshal Karim
Articles Published :120
Bearing a penchant for writing in multiple forms, I love telling a good story and hope to tell impactful ones about the fandom’s side of the Entertainment industry. I found the movie of my life in Christopher Nolan’s 2014' s Interstellar, which fascinated me with the perfect blend of science and cinema, leaving me curious about Hollywood. In my leisure time, you will find me indulging in photography, gardening, and cycling.
