The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase 5 is officially underway with the release of “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” in theatres. The film has been highly anticipated for its connections to the larger franchise, with the cast and crew teasing that it will have a surprising domino effect towards stories in the future. It has been revealed that two of the biggest projects that will have ties to “Quantumania” are “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty” and “Avengers: Secret Wars,” both featuring Kang the Conqueror (Jonathan Majors).
“Quantumania” sees the Lang and Pym-Van Dyne families accidentally being thrown into the Quantum Realm, where they learn that its makeup of it has changed since Janet Van Dyne was rescued from it. Kang, who befriended Janet when he was also stuck in the realm, has grown evil and frustrated and has remade much of the society of the Quantum Realm in his image. As Kang reveals midway through the film, he is exiled to the Quantum Realm by the other versions of himself after he tries to stop their attempts to destroy as much of the multiverse as possible.
By the film’s end, Scott Lang / Ant-Man and Hope Van Dyne / The Wasp destroy the technology Kang could use to escape, seemingly killing him. However, the post-credits scenes reveal countless other versions of Kang, including a “Prime” Kang that has yet to be introduced. These other variants will stop at nothing to fulfil their goal and try to destroy all of reality itself, similar to what occurred in both versions of the Secret Wars comic.
While “Quantumania” seemingly ends the story of Kang the Conqueror, the post-credits scenes suggest that he will play a significant role in future Marvel projects. It is speculated that Kang-Prime or even the trio at the centre of the Council of Kangs could end up being the central antagonists of “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty.” This would further fine-tune the conflict with Kang before “Avengers: Secret Wars” rolls around.
With the release of “Quantumania,” Marvel has set up a complex web of events that will impact the franchise’s future. The film introduces concepts like the Council of Kangs, which could be explored in greater detail in future projects. It also expands on the Quantum Realm and its role in the larger multiverse, providing a foundation for future films like “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.”
Overall, “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is a significant addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, setting up the stage for future projects and exploring new and exciting concepts. While the film’s post-credits scenes hint at the destruction that Kang and his variants will bring, it also provides a sense of excitement for what’s to come. Fans of the franchise can look forward to seeing how these events will unfold and impact the larger story of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
