Could Big Hero 6 Join the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

On August 31, 2009, Disney made a momentous announcement that it would acquire Marvel for a staggering $4.24 billion. This purchase, as history has shown, proved to be a lucrative investment, as the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) became one of the most profitable franchises ever. With access to Marvel’s extensive catalog, albeit with a few exceptions such as mutants, the Fantastic Four, and Spider-Man, fans couldn’t help but wonder if Disney would explore Marvel-related content outside the MCU. This curiosity only intensified when Disney Animation Studios revealed plans in 2013 to create a feature-length film based on the relatively obscure comic book title, “Big Hero 6.”

Although many fans were unfamiliar with this superhero team, the movie quickly catapulted Hiro, Baymax, and their companions into the realm of household names. “Big Hero 6” achieved box office success and even earned an Academy Award for Best Animated Film. The team’s popularity didn’t stop there, as they also landed their own animated series on Disney XD. Yet, one burning question still lingers in the minds of Marvel enthusiasts: will “Big Hero 6” ever become a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe? Let’s explore the reasons why it might, and why it might not.

Yes: Big Hero 6 Has Name Recognition Now

With “Avengers: Endgame” becoming the highest-grossing film of all time in 2019, the Marvel cinematic juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down. Marvel consistently churns out billion-dollar blockbusters, and introducing a live-action movie based on an already-beloved franchise like “Big Hero 6” could undoubtedly be a financial bonanza. In 2014, the “Big Hero 6” animated film grossed over $650 million globally, and the franchise has since expanded with toys, merchandise, and a successful cartoon series on Disney XD. The timing appears ideal for the team to enter the MCU, potentially breaking the coveted $1 billion barrier that Marvel films consistently aim for.

No: Big Hero 6 Has Never Been Labeled as ‘Marvel’

Although “Big Hero 6” originates from Marvel comics, Disney seems content with positioning it as a “Disney” movie rather than a “Marvel” one. While other superhero series on Disney XD bear titles like “Marvel’s Avengers: Secret Wars” and “Marvel’s Spider-Man,” the “Big Hero 6” series is simply named “Big Hero 6.” This separation is further emphasized by the lack of MCU crossover appearances in the “Big Hero 6” universe. In contrast, other Disney XD superhero series frequently feature characters from the MCU, even if they aren’t regulars. Thus, “Big Hero 6” remains distinct from the broader Marvel franchise.

Yes: There Are Intriguing Stories in the Comic Books to Explore

Despite Marvel’s underutilization of “Big Hero 6” in comic books, there is a treasure trove of untapped stories to inspire future movies. Notably, the 2008 series “Brave New Heroes” introduced a unique narrative where Fred transforms into a colossal, Godzilla-like creature called Fredzilla, providing potential for a darker, more complex storyline. Moreover, “Big Hero 6” has previously joined forces with Spider-Man in the comics, specifically in the “Ends of the Earth” storyline. This plotline features a confrontation with Doctor Octopus and his Octobots in Japan, presenting an opportunity to incorporate pre-existing MCU characters for a thrilling crossover.

No: Significant Changes Would Be Necessary

The animated “Big Hero 6” movie and series already introduce a quirky, unconventional world. It takes place in the fictional city of San Fransokyo, a fusion of San Francisco and Tokyo, in a futuristic setting. This unique environment deviates from the MCU, which predominantly operates in a real-world setting. While the MCU occasionally introduces fictional locales like Wakanda, transposing “Big Hero 6” into the present MCU timeline while preserving its distinctive elements could prove challenging. To maintain the essence of the heroes, Marvel might need to make substantial alterations that risk diluting the charm of the original.

Yes: A Stan Lee Cameo Could Connect It to the MCU

A subtle Easter egg in “Avengers: Age of Ultron” raises intriguing possibilities. In a scene preceding the climactic battle, Tony Stark selects a new A.I. system, with one option labeled “T.A.D.A.S.H.I.” This reference is noteworthy because Tadashi is the name of Hiro’s older brother, who develops Baymax in the “Big Hero 6” film. Considering that “Big Hero 6” premiered just a year before “Age of Ultron,” this appears as a clever Easter egg and hints at the possibility of integration into the MCU. Stan Lee’s recurring cameo character, known for traversing the multiverse, could serve as a conduit for “Big Hero 6” to enter the MCU.

No: Marvel Already Has a Packed Schedule

Marvel’s ambitious Phase 4 lineup includes films like “Black Panther 2,” “Captain Marvel 2,” and sequels for Thor and Doctor Strange. Additionally, they plan to reintroduce the X-Men and Fantastic Four into the MCU. This packed schedule leaves limited room for “Big Hero 6” to fit seamlessly into the existing narrative. The unique dynamics of the “Big Hero 6” team, particularly Hiro’s youthfulness, pose challenges for integration alongside established MCU characters. This crowded landscape raises doubts about when and how “Big Hero 6” could find its place in the MCU.

Yes: Big Hero 6 Has Connections to the X-Men

“Big Hero 6” boasts historical ties to X-Men characters, offering a potential entry point into the MCU. In its early ’90s comic debut, “Big Hero 6” featured Sunfire and Silver Samurai, both associated with the X-Men. Exploring these connections could provide a natural avenue for integrating “Big Hero 6” into the MCU, especially as Marvel prepares to reintroduce the X-Men to its cinematic universe.

No: A Fulfilling Story Is Already Being Told

The “Big Hero 6” story has continued through the animated series “Big Hero 6: The Series,” which picks up after the events of the movie. The series follows Hiro and his friends as they navigate college life and combat threats to their city. With Disney renewing the series for a third season, there is an ongoing narrative exploring the team’s adventures. Given the success and continuation of the animated series, Marvel may not perceive a pressing need to adapt “Big Hero 6” into a live-action film for the MCU.

Final Verdict: Unlikely to Join the MCU

Considering the evidence, it appears unlikely that “Big Hero 6” will make the transition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Despite subtle Easter eggs and connections to X-Men characters, the distinctive nature of “Big Hero 6’s” world and the MCU’s busy schedule pose significant challenges. Additionally, the animated series provides an avenue for ongoing storytelling. While fans may continue to hope for an MCU appearance by Hiro and his team, the practical obstacles make it an improbable prospect.

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