Spider-Man 3: Alfred Molina to make MCU debut as Doctor Octopus
By Scott Brown
In shocking news, another previous Spider-Man villain will make his return in the upcoming third film of the Tom Holland franchise.
After rumors last month of seeing Alfred Molina on set of Spider-Man 3, it has now been reportedly confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter that he will be reprising the role of Doctor Octopus.
With Molina’s inclusion in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the upcoming Spidey film looks to tie together each live-action Spider-Man franchise as Jamie Foxx is also reprising his role as Electro from The Amazing Spider-Man 2.
How will Alfred Molina return in Spider-Man 3?
Alfred Molina’s inclusion is a welcome surprise as he is a fan-favorite for many people and is one of the highlights of Sam Raimi’s trilogy, even for those who aren’t fans of said films. Just like Jamie Foxx’s Electro, Molina’s Doctor Octopus died at the end of his only appearance so far, so it’s to be surmised that he will portraying a new version of the same.
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In fact, given that Molina is 67, it’s possible that the film could be taking notes from the Superior Spider-Man storyline in the comics. In this storyline, an older, dying Otto Octavius manages to switch his mind into Peter’s body, and vice versa, thus allowing him to take over the mantle of Spider-Man. So, with Molina being a bit older than one would expect for a superhero film, it’s possible that Otto will be the one on the hunt for Peter in order to try and save himself.
With the inclusion of Doctor Octopus, Spider-Man 3 looks to be building toward this franchise’s version of the Sinister Six. Vulture and Mysterio (yes, he is more than likely still alive) already exist. Electro and Doctor Octopus are now in the franchise. Morbius is apparently also in this universe. And it’s only a matter of time before Green Goblin will be introduced. Goblin is the Joker to Spider-Man’s Batman, so it would be insane not to introduce him eventually.
Regardless, with everything that’s come out about Spider-Man 3 so far, it’s a film that looks like it is going to be stacked with talent.
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Are you looking forward to seeing Doctor Octopus return in Spider-Man 3? Let us know in the comments below!