New fan art has emerged that imagines Mahershala Ali‘s portrayal of Blade in a style reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino‘s iconic characters from his films, particularly the “Kill Bill” series. Ali, who was officially cast as the vampire hunter Eric Brooks in 2019, has yet to debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) despite hints of his character’s presence, including a brief appearance in the post-credits scene of Eternals.
The anticipated reboot of Blade has faced significant production challenges, leaving fans eagerly awaiting Ali’s full introduction to the MCU. The fan art, shared by the artist known as @arifinity_ on Instagram, creatively combines elements from both volumes of “Kill Bill,” which originally released in 2003 and 2004, and is scheduled to be re-released as Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair on December 5, 2025.
Linking Blade to Tarantino’s Aesthetic
In the fan art, Blade is depicted with stylistic elements that echo the unique visual and narrative approach of Tarantino’s films. The “Kill Bill” series is celebrated for its intense fight sequences and vibrant storytelling, both of which could greatly influence how Blade is portrayed. Tarantino’s films often delve into deeply personal narratives, and a similar focus for Blade could enhance its character development.
The original “Kill Bill” films follow The Bride, played by Uma Thurman, on her quest for vengeance against a group of assassins. This theme of personal struggle and vengeance could resonate with Blade’s own narrative, as he battles against the vampire world while grappling with his hybrid identity.
Marvel Studios is currently in search of a director to bring their vision for Blade to life, having seen previous directors Bassam Tariq and Yann Demange depart from the project. As Marvel looks to redefine its approach following recent criticisms of its storytelling, a unique tone for Blade could set a new standard for the franchise.
Expectations for Action and Style
The fight choreography in Blade is expected to be a critical aspect of the film, paralleling the elaborate combat seen in Tarantino’s work. As a vampire-human hybrid, Eric Brooks is inherently equipped for intense action sequences, providing ample opportunities for thrilling visuals.
Blade’s character is a master martial artist and swordsman, sharing many combat skills with The Bride, suggesting that elements of Thurman’s fighting style could inspire Ali’s performance. This potential crossover of styles from Tarantino’s films to the MCU could offer fans a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.
As anticipation builds for Blade’s eventual release, the intersection of Tarantino’s filmmaking legacy and Marvel’s superhero storytelling opens up intriguing possibilities for the character’s future. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in discussions about what they hope to see in this new adaptation.
