What does Joe Russo mean by going “back to phase zero”?

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Joe Russo's "Back to Phase Zero" Approach Signifies a Complete Creative Reset

Co-director Joe Russo has indicated that the filmmaking approach for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday signifies a complete creative reset, a concept he described as returning to "phase zero." This implies a deliberate departure from previous established narratives and a commitment to building the film's foundation from the ground up, ensuring it stands independently without relying on prior installments within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This strategic shift aims to present a fresh narrative experience for audiences.
A Fresh Start for the MCU Narrative

The statement "starting over from scratch" by Joe Russo underscores the intention to forge a new path for the MCU. This "phase zero" concept suggests that the filmmakers are not building upon the conclusions or character arcs of the Infinity Saga or subsequent phases. Instead, they are aiming to establish a foundational narrative that feels entirely new, as Russo articulated a desire to ensure "everybody feels like this isn’t leaning on anything from the past."
Contrasting with Previous MCU Phases

Generally, in filmmaking and particularly within large cinematic universes like the MCU, subsequent phases often build directly upon established lore, character developments, and unresolved plot threads from preceding chapters. The Infinity Saga, for instance, meticulously wove together numerous character storylines culminating in Avengers: Endgame. By contrast, a "back to phase zero" approach implies a deliberate severance from such direct continuity, seeking to offer a distinct entry point or a reimagined core for the MCU's future storytelling.
Re-establishing Foundational Elements

The concept of "phase zero" in this context can be understood as the initial conceptual and developmental stage of a project, before any existing material or established continuity significantly influences the creative direction. For Avengers: Doomsday, this means the filmmakers are treating the project as if it were the very first step in a new saga, allowing for the freedom to explore new themes, characters, and narrative structures without the immediate burden of preceding events. This approach is particularly noteworthy given the MCU's history of interconnected storytelling.

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What does Joe Russo mean by going “back to phase zero”?

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