The Direct Podcast is back with a packed episode of top news, trailer reactions, episode reviews, drafts and more. The new Shang-Chi trailer is loaded with new footage that is taking excitement around the film to a whole new level. The relationship between Shang-Chi and The Mandarin is at the forefront of the promotion so far, and we dive into what that could mean when Marvel's Kung-Fu master hits screens in September. It also features the return of not one, but two fan-favorite MCU characters from days past. Loki Episode 3, "Lamentis", slowed things down for the series of mischief as fans learned about Sylvie and her story. A lot of dialogue, a few huge twists and some monumental reveals. This episode built some depth behind these characters as we make our way into the back half of the season.How does Episode 3 set up the conclusion to the time crime drama, that is now less than a month away?With so many leaked photos recently released from the set of The Flash, we dive into the fine balance between reporting on a project and spoiling a big reveal. DC has handled this conundrum differently with different projects, and it will be interesting to see how they handle it moving forward. And at the end of the show, we are joined by The Direct's David Thompson to draft the best opening scenes in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. From Winter Soldier to the Endgame, which opening scene is the best tone setter in the MCU?Timecodes - Ep393:03 - Thank You!4:56 - Quick Question28:30 - Sizzle Reel31:19 - Dafoe Keeps Quiet on Spider-Man Return33:27 - Black Widow Closing In35:59 - Emilia Clarke in the MCU40:50 - Loki Ep3 Review41:10 - Initial Thoughts54:16 - Spoilers Spoilers Spoilers1:29:03 - Lines! That! Matter!1:35:00 - The Bigger Picture: Leaked Set Photos1:49:26 - The Direct Draft: Best MCU Opening Scenes2:33:26 - Weekly Recs