Marvel Comics
The Avengers foe finds a new rival in Natasha Romanoff
Marvel Studios finally unveiled the first details of Scarlett Johansson’s stand-alone Black Widow movie at the studio’s Hall H panel during 2019 San Diego Comic-Con. And even though the crew has only been filming for 30 days, Marvel was still able to reveal the film’s villain in a teaser trailer full of brutal fight choreography.
Black Widow will be facing off against the Taskmaster.
Taskmaster was co-created by legendary artist George Pérez and David Michelinie (Michelinie also co-created Venom, Scot Lang, and James “Rhodey” Rhodes), and he first appeared in the pages of 1980’s The Avengers #196. The story was called “The Terrible Toll of the Taskmaster.” That’s not important, it’s just great alliteration.
In the Hall H exclusive trailer, Taskmaster appeared on a bridge at the very end, as Black Widow stepped out of her wrecked car to face him. His movie design favors muted reds and blues, and a chromed mask that isn’t exactly skull-like, as his comics inspiration, but definitely skull-evocative. He also carried his trademark sword and shield, and, in the final shot of the footage, he mirrored Black Widow’s movements perfectly, showcasing his trademark superpower.
In the comics, Taskmaster’s true identity has always been unknown, but his abilities are well documented. When he was a kid, he discovered that he could master any physical skill simply by watching someone perform it, a phenomenon that doctors referred to as “photographic reflexes.” As an adult, he turned his talent to the criminal sphere, observing the techniques of as many superheroes and villains as he could in order to master their skills. Then, to make things worse, he used his ill-gotten gains to open training facilities for other criminals and henchmen.
This has often made him a formidable enemy for low-powered and martial-based heroes like Captain America, Daredevil, and Iron Fist. Now, in his screen debut, he’ll take on the Black Widow, when Black Widow hits theaters on May 1, 2020. We do not yet know who is playing the role.
Source: Polygon
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