A new behind-the-scenes video for Black Widow explores the mysterious villain known as Taskmaster, and why he’s such a dangerous foe. Taskmaster’s actor has been kept a secret by Disney and Marvel Studios, hinting at some possible twists involving the character later in the film. Black Widow stars Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, O-T Fagbenle, Rachel Weisz, Ray Winstone, and William Hurt, and is scheduled to release on July 9.

In the comics, Taskmaster is an ordinary person named Tony Masters, who discovers he possesses the uncanny ability to mimic any physical act after observing it once. As a kid, he uses this skill to become a star athlete, and after becoming an adult, he chooses a life of crime and becomes the Taskmaster. Because of his perfect mimicry, Taskmaster is able to copy any hero or villain’s fighting style to the letter, as long as it doesn’t require any superhuman abilities. Through the years, that skill has made him a dangerous opponent to many Marvel heroes.

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Taskmaster’s frightening combat skills are explored a bit deeper in a new featurette video for Black Widow from Marvel Entertainment. Johansson, Harbour and Weisz, and director Cate Shortland all speak on the villain’s mysterious presence and the unique threat he poses to Natasha. Captain America, Black Panther, and Hawkeye are all cited as characters Taskmaster has observed and is therefore able to mimic, and the video shows him wielding both shields and bows to powerful effect. Watch the new Black Widow video below.

Click here to watch the original video.

Given the secrecy surrounding Taskmaster’s MCU identity, it seems likely that he’ll be a good deal different than he is in the comics. The franchise has never shied away from reworking characters when bringing them to live-action, and that trend will likely continue in Black Widow. Some have theorized that Taskmaster could have HYDRA connections or be tied to the Winter Soldier program, either of which could present some interesting narrative opportunities.

Through Taskmaster’s unique fighting skills, Black Widow will also be able to pay homage to some of the franchise’s past heroes. Bringing in classic moves and weapons from older characters like Captain America and Hawkeye is a fun twist, and should create some exciting action set pieces. Fortunately, Natasha will have her old family of Russian warriors around to help her battle back against the MCU’s new villain. And since the film takes place before the events of Avengers: Infinity War, fans can go in knowing she probably winds up victorious. Taskmaster’s true identity will be revealed when Black Widow releases on July 9.

Next: Why Black Widow's New Super Soldier Will Be Stronger Than Bucky

Source: Marvel Entertainment

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Rick Stevenson (864 Articles Published)

Rick Stevenson is a writer, editor and performer based in Brooklyn, NY. He's written on TV, film and games for over six years, in addition to assorted stints in bookselling, carpentry, and TV production. Rick studied writing at the College of William & Mary and Oxford University, and can report with some authority that they are both old. He lives and dies for Avatar: The Last Airbender.

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