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Ali’s involvement goes beyond acting; he’s had considerable sway over creative decisions, including the choice of directors. In September 2022, after original director Bassam Tarek left the project, Ali personally recommended a new filmmaker. Marvel executives, however, expressed reservations about Tarek and other potential directors, prompting Ali to conduct his own search—a move that surprised many industry insiders. The director Ali selected, however, has also exited the project, further underscoring the instability gripping Blade.