The Marvel Cinematic Universe is officially heading into its next chapter. Earlier today, directors Joe and Anthony Russo took to Instagram to announce that filming for Avengers: Doomsday has officially begun. The brothers, who previously helmed blockbuster hits like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, posted a simple image — a director’s chair on set, with the name Victor Von Doom. Their caption was short yet telling: “Day one…”

The post instantly sent Marvel fans into a frenzy, as it marks the highly anticipated beginning of production for the next major Avengers instalment. It also marks the return of the fan-favourite Robert Downey Jr. to the franchise after Avengers: Endgame. Revealed during San Diego Comic-Con 2024, Avengers: Doomsday promises a bold new direction for the MCU. He returns to the franchise in a surprising twist, this time not as the ultimate hero Iron Man, but as the villain — Doctor Doom.

Marvel Studios recently confirmed the ensemble cast for Doomsday, a star-studded lineup that includes Anthony Mackie as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm among many others. Veterans like Tom Hiddleston’s Loki, Paul Rudd’s Ant-Man, and Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes will also reprise their roles. Meanwhile, X-Men icons Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen will be seen alongside newcomers like Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn, and Simu Liu.

While the team remains tight-lipped about the plot details, early teasers hint at an epic Multiversal storyline where Doctor Doom, now one of the MCU’s most formidable threats, sets his sights on conquering multiple realities. The first behind-the-scenes footage has already hinted at a medieval-like set, complete with torch-lit campsites and dense forests.