OK, so we know that there's a group of characters that we won't be seeing in the cinematic Marvel Universe anytime soon. Also, how will the rights to these characters and their mythology effect future Marvel movies? For instance, rumor has it that the Avengers movie could include the Skrulls. But Fox supposedly holds the rights to the Super Skrull as part of the Fantastic Four contract. In the upcoming Captain America movie, it would be nice to hear the conversation about how nothing can penetrate Cap's shield...not even adamantium. But, adamantium is X-Men mythology therefore not available for the Marvel Universe.
So, what other viable characters does Marvel have that deserve the big screen treatment which would not be affected by companies owning the rights to more than the characters? If Avengers goes well, I wouldn't doubt that they would try to spin off solo movies for some of the second teir characters. But beyond that, what other characters should be brought to life? Moon Knight? Dr. Strange? Deathlok? The Sentry? I'm sure there are more, but these are the only ones that come to mind. The X-Men license holds alot of characters hostage, and most will probably never be used. The Fantastic Four license will hold up what could've been a great Silver Surfer movie. Thank God it appears that Namor was not included in that contract (hopefully).
As far as shear number of interesting characters goes, I think DC has the upper hand. While it would be great to have an interacting universe for DC, it seems to suit Marvel better. If DC were ever to make a "team" movie, like the Justice League, it almost seems like it would have to be an epic story. Something along the lines of Crisis On Infinite Earths, involving a multitude of characters. A huge, three movie, Lord of the Rings story, with the entire team being on screen together for the final 20 minutes of the third film. The Avengers on the other hand seem as though the characters would mesh much better at an earlier stage. But I believe that DC has more potential for stand alone movies. I suppose I should just be thankful that Marvel retained the rights to several key figures in order to bring us this Avengers movie while I sit and wonder what the Superman/Batman movie could've been like. I know you've all got your thoughts on what characters you'd like Marvel to fast track, so let's hear 'em.