Venom 3 wasn’t the only big Sony news to emerge from CinemaCon tonight. The studio (per Variety) also announced a brand new movie set in its MCU-adjacent Marvel Universe. This one will feature rapper Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio (a.k.a. Bad Bunny) as El Muerto.
If you’ve never heard of El Muerto before, don’t be surprised. The character was introduced in Friendly Neighbood Spider-Man #6 in 2006 and he has only appeared in a handful of Marvel issues since then. Created by Peter David and Roger Cruz, El Muerto is the alter-ego of Juan-Carlos Sanchez, the latest in a long line of wrestlers who receive enhanced strength and endurance from a mystical luchador’s mask. Sony reportedly implied that Ocasio is playing Juan-Carlos as “an antihero on the verge of inheriting his father’s power.”
Ocasio officially launched his career in 2018 with the release of his debut album, X 100pre. Since then, he has released two additional LPs, the most recent of which bowed in 2020. As an actor, he has booked roles in F9: The Fast Saga and Netflix’s Narcos: Mexico. He will next appear onscreen in Bullet Train, which hit theaters in July. Just like his character, Ocasio has also dabbled in the world of professional wrestling. He even won his first WWE match at WrestleMania 37 last year.
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Despite fans’ lack of familiarity with El Muerto, Sony still aims to make history with the film, which will make Ocasio the first Latino actor to headline a live-action Marvel movie. Ocasio also appeared onstage at CinemaCon to discuss what playing the character means to him.
“To bring El Muerto to life is just incredible .. so exciting,” said Ocasio.
Sony hasn’t announced a writer or a director for El Muerto. Regardless, the film will hit theaters on January 12, 2024.
Do you think Ocasio is a good choice to bring El Muerto to life on the big screen? Give us your impressions in the comment section below!
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