Avengers 5 Filming: Why Scotland’s Absence from ‘Doomsday’ Signals a Shift in MCU’s Grand Strategy
The Scottish Highlands, with their majestic, dramatic landscapes, have become a surprisingly iconic backdrop for superhero spectacle. Yet, as Chris Hemsworth himself hints, this beloved filming location might be conspicuously absent from the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. This potential shift signals more than just a change of scenery; it could reflect a broader, strategic evolution in how Marvel crafts its most ambitious narratives.
The Vanishing Asgardian Haven
For fans who’ve meticulously followed the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s sprawling saga, New Asgard’s presence in places like Scotland has offered a tangible connection to Thor’s cosmic lineage. Introduced in Avengers: Endgame after the destruction of Asgard proper in Thor: Ragnarok, and revisited in Thor: Love and Thunder, the Earth-based Asgardian settlement provided a grounding element for the thunder god’s narrative arc.
However, Hemsworth’s recent comments to the Scottish Daily Express suggest that the epic scope of Avengers: Doomsday may necessitate a different kind of visual storytelling. “Filming The Avengers in Scotland was a really cool experience,” Hemsworth stated, “It doesn’t look like we are coming back for Doomsday. But I’d love to not only visit there again, but to film and do more work in the country. The people are amazing.” This sentiment, while expressing a personal fondness for the location, directly points to its likely exclusion from the next major Avengers ensemble film, slated for a December 18th, 2026 release.
Beyond the Highlands: What Drives Location Decisions?
The decision to move away from established filming locations for such a massive production is rarely arbitrary. Several factors likely influence these choices, ranging from logistical considerations to the evolving thematic needs of the MCU. The sheer scale of Avengers: Doomsday, expected to unite numerous superhero teams, could demand environments that better serve the narrative’s overarching goals. Perhaps the story requires more alien vistas, more technologically advanced settings, or even more grounded, urban environments to contrast with the cosmic threats anticipated.
Hemsworth’s appreciation for the Highlands as “a place made for an iconic battle scene” highlights their cinematic potential. However, the specific demands of Doomsday might necessitate a different visual language. It’s possible the film aims to explore new worlds or dimensions, or perhaps a more intimate, character-driven focus that doesn’t lean as heavily on expansive, naturalistic backdrops.
Consider the broader MCU rollout. Before Doomsday, audiences will experience The Fantastic Four: First Steps on July 25th, 2025. This introduction of a new set of iconic characters suggests a potential shift in focus towards unique, world-building aesthetics that might set the Fantastic Four apart before the Avengers convene.
The Evolving Narrative: Asgardian Threads and Potential Omissions
The absence of New Asgard could also tie into the evolving storylines of the characters associated with it. Thor, having endured immense loss, is a central figure in the ongoing cosmic narrative. While Chris Hemsworth is confirmed to return, the fate of other Asgardian characters, like Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), remains less certain, with her not currently listed in the Doomsday cast. If key Asgardian figures are not prominent in the next Avengers outing, the specific need for New Asgard as a filming location diminishes.
The MCU has a consistent track record of adapting and evolving its storytelling environments. From the alien landscapes of Xandar to the bustling streets of New York and the advanced technology of Wakanda, each setting serves a distinct narrative purpose. The move away from Scotland for Doomsday may simply be the next step in this dynamic process, ensuring that the visual environments consistently elevate the unfolding multiverse saga.
Moreover, the expansion of the MCU into streaming via Disney+ allows for more nuanced character development and world-building, potentially freeing up cinematic releases to focus on the most impactful, large-scale events. As fans have navigated the intricate plotlines from Infinity War to the present, the emotional resonance of loss and rebuilding has been a constant theme for characters like Thor and the surviving Asgardians.
Future Filming Trends and Audience Expectations
Hemsworth’s desire to return to Scotland for future projects, perhaps even with other franchises like Netflix’s Extraction, indicates that the country’s appeal as a filming location remains strong. This suggests that the decision is specific to Avengers: Doomsday rather than a blanket exclusion of the location from Hollywood’s major productions.
The continued success of the MCU hinges on its ability to surprise and engage audiences with fresh visual experiences and compelling narratives. While the absence of a familiar location like New Asgard might initially disappoint some fans, it also opens the door for new, exciting environments that can further expand the visual tapestry of the Marvel universe. The strategic use of filming locations is as crucial to the MCU’s success as its character development and plot progression. As we look towards Avengers: Doomsday, the choices made in where and how these epic stories are told will undoubtedly shape our perception of this ever-expanding cinematic world.
What are your predictions for the filming locations and narrative shifts in Avengers: Doomsday? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Explore our guide to the upcoming MCU releases for more insights into the studio’s ambitious plans.
For a deeper dive into how filming locations impact global cinema, see this analysis on the economic impact of film production.
