Pratik Handore
The ever-expanding ‘MCU‘ is one of the highest-grossing film franchises ever. The interconnected and shared universe of Marvel Comics characters is known for its signature post-credits scenes that have become a norm in modern franchise filmmaking. Therefore, fans eagerly wait in their seats with anticipation and excitement even after the credits have rolled to get a tease of future films and shows. Those same feelings are surrounding ‘Black Widow,’ the franchise’s first Phase 4 release.
The superhero film directed by Cate Shortland is the first solo film featuring the eponymous character. It gives us a look at Natasha Romanoff/ Black Widow’s time as a fugitive in the aftermath of 2016’s ‘Captain America: Civil War.’ If you are wondering whether you should stick around after the credits for an extra special bonus scene, here’s the answer. SPOILERS AHEAD!
Does Black Widow Have a Post-Credits Scene?
‘Black Widow’ features some of the best action set-pieces in ‘MCU.’ Despite the stylized action that is a spectacle to behold, the film is a solid family-themed movie and ends on a profoundly emotional note. Over the movie, Natasha reunites with Yelena Belova/ Black Widow, Melina Vostokoff/ Black Widow, and Alexei Shostakov/ Red Guardian, who are like family to the Avenger.
In the end, the quartet successfully stops the villainous Taskmaster, and Natasha goes her own way. Before leaving, she bids an emotional farewell to her sister and family. She then heads to rescue members of Team Cap who have been incarcerated for violating the Sokovia Accords and the credits roll. However, in a classic Marvel Studios fashion, there is a traditional post-credits stinger that should have fans of the franchise pretty excited.
Black Widow Post-Credits Scene, Explained
The post-credits scene features Yelena visiting Natasha’s grave accompanied by a dog. As she pays her respects, Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) visits her. Valentina, who is Yelena’s employer/ handler, assigns the Black Widow her new target, Clint Barton/ Hawkeye, who she claims is the reason for Natasha’s death. As fans might be aware, the Avenger graciously sacrificed herself in ‘Avengers: Endgame‘ to help defeat Thanos. In the post-credits scene, it is clear that Valentina is trying to manipulate Yelena. However, we are yet to find out how Natasha’s sister came to work with Valentina in the first place.
The scene likely teases the upcoming Disney+ series ‘Hawkeye,’ which is set to focus on Jeremy Renner’s character Clint Barton/ Hawkeye. Therefore, it is safe to assume we will see Yelena in ‘Hawkeye’ next. This setup is particularly interesting because in the comics, after the death of Natasha, Yelena comes into conflict with Hawkeye and The Winter Soldier. Therefore, it will be exciting to see a dynamic opposite to the one shared by Clint and Natasha.
Valentina first appears in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,’ and the show’s finale hints that she is assembling a team of morally ambiguous superheroes as a replacement for The Avengers. Thunderbolts and Dark Avengers are popular examples of such teams from the pages of Marvel Comics. Both teams have been long rumored to be debuting in the franchise, and the studio is likely taking the longer approach by introducing potential members of the teams in individual films (and shows) just like it did with the core members of the Avengers team.
On a side note, the post-credits scene also puts to rest fan outrage that emerged because Natasha didn’t receive a funeral after her death. Now, we at least know that the beloved Avenger is remembered and has a resting spot. At the same time, it seems like Black Widow’s legacy is going to live on through Yelena.
Read More: Where Was Black Widow Filmed?
