'Avengers 2: Age Of Ultron' Opening Sequence To Be Based In South Africa? Filming Begins On Joss Whedon Film [VIDEO]

The Avengers: Age of Ultron has officially started filming, although the main cast has yet to step in front of the cameras.

Although the majority of production for the Marvel film will take place at Shepperton Studios in England, Joss Whedon's crew composed their first shots in South Africa on Tuesday, according to Metro. Johannesburg is only one of several international locations booked for the film, joining a confirmed shoot in Italy and a rumored location in South Korea.

"We are excited to host Marvel... It strengthens Johannesburg's position as a worldwide film production centre with first class facilities and production support," said Parks Tausaid, Mayor of Johannesburg, according to Channel 24. "It also has a very positive impact for the region and is a great opportunity for the city to be showcased to a worldwide audience."

Age of Ultron will spend two weeks in the South African city, according to MTV, but the upcoming work will not include any appearances from high-profile names like Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), or Chris Hemsworth (Thor).

However, the conspicuous lack of Avengers does not mean the action sequence will be unimportant. IGN claims that the footage will comprise the first 10 minutes of the release. If the sequel echoes it's predecessor, this time could give viewers their first glimpse of a villain.

This news may come as an unfortunate blow to those who were hoping that a South African locale would serve to introduce the Black Panther into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Avengers: Age Of Ultron will hit theaters on May 1, 2015. Click the video below to view a teaser from the 2013 San Diego Comic-Con.