There’s been a lot of talk about Black Panther hiring a director who is black, and Captain Marvel hiring a director who is a woman, but why? Just because those are the “defining” qualities of each character in some people’s eyes? Does that mean only white male directors can helm superhero movies with white male leads? It’s a huge topic of debate right now, and Captain America: Civil War star Anthony Mackie has weighed in on the matter.
In fact, the actor summed up the entire situation pretty perfectly during an interview with The Daily Beast:
“I don’t think it’s important at all. As a director your job is to tell a story. You know, they didn’t get a horse to direct Seabiscuit!”
Asked to elaborate on that, Mackie provided a more in depth explanation as to why he believes Marvel should ultimately end up just hiring the right person for Black Panther, regardless of race and gender.
“The thing is I don’t think the race of the director has to do with their ability to tell a story. I think it’s all about the director’s ability to be able to relate to that story and do it justice. I think men can direct women, and two of my greatest work experiences were with female directors. So I think it all depends. May the best man — or woman — win.”
It’s hard to argue with that point, and it’s going to be very interesting to see the direction Marvel ultimately goes in when it comes to hiring a director for Black Panther. So far, the only names we’ve seen mentioned have been non-white filmmakers, so chances are the studio are heading down that route for their first movie focusing on a black superhero.
Tell us, do you agree with Anthony Mackie’s comments on Black Panther? Let us know your thoughts below.
