Will Thanos Be the Main Villain in Avengers: Endgame?

As we gear up for the highly anticipated Avengers: Endgame, many fans are wondering about the role of the infamous Thanos. After completing his task of the Snap in Avengers: Infinity War, his presence in the fourth phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has left many questioning if he will continue to be a significant antagonist in Avengers: Endgame.

Chances of Thanos's reappearance

According to recent speculation, there is an 80% chance of Thanos making a return in Avengers: Endgame. Some theories suggest that Thanos's solo movie may focus on his destruction of Xandar, showcasing the aftermath of his actions and potentially providing a new angle for his reappearance. However, many are divided on his role in the final film.

Thanos as a Generic Villain

Some argue that Thanos is the "generic" villain, as seen in previous MCU films. Unlike Loki, who serves as a foil to Thor, or other series villains that drive plot and character conflict, Thanos's narrative arc is less clear. Even his relationship with Nebula, while deeper, is not yet the central focus of a major character arc.

Supporters of the generic villain theory believe that Thanos serves as the primary antagonist for Tony Stark during his journey in Avengers: Infinity War, even though not everyone believes he plays the main villain role. For many, the true antagonist in Avengers: Endgame is not Thanos himself but the time that needs to be reversed.

The Role of Time in Avengers: Endgame

Many theories suggest that Time is the main antagonist in Avengers: Endgame. The urgency to reverse the consequences of the Snap creates a sense of time pressure that drives the film's narrative. This timeline-focused conflict is also seen as a way to end many of the legacy characters' story arcs, marking the continuity of the MCU.

Thanos's Snap serves as a catalyst for the MCU to reboot the franchise for younger audiences, ensuring a continuous story for the next generation. However, his primary task has been completed. Avengers: Infinity War focused on Thanos's origin and story, while the heroes were the true antagonists. The film was designed to set the stage for Thanos's eventual victory, with none of the heroes' personal stories or relationships evolving significantly.

In Avengers: Endgame

It is predicted that the focus will be more on the characters resolving their personal conflicts and relationships, rather than direct opposition to Thanos. For example, Tony Stark and Nick Fury may find a way to reconcile, while Pepper Potts and Tony Stark can have a "sunset" scene, creating a sense of closure for their relationship. Captain America's past will be explored, with the potential for his shield to live on after his death, leaving the possibility of his return or recast.

Peter Parker's origin story will be further developed, revealing more about his Uncle Ben and Aunt May, with the origin of the death of his Uncle Ben fully explained.

There are also theories suggesting that Loki may return, becoming the god of mischief once more, which could intrigue new characters and shift the franchise into a new timeline.

Conclusion

While Thanos will surely play a significant role in Avengers: Endgame, he is more of a plot device and an antagonist for the current timeline than a main villain. The true antagonist is the time that needs to be reversed, with Thanos serving as the catalyst for this plot. The focus will be more on the heroes and their personal journeys towards reconciliation and redemption.