Marvel have announced in a statement released today that Edgar Wright will no longer be directing Ant-Man. This news comes as a massive blow to fans – yes, that includes us here at We Got This Covered – who had been gearing up for the Brit director’s take on the material. From what’s being reported, it all came down to good old fashioned creative differences:
“Marvel and Edgar Wright jointly announced today that the studio and director have parted ways on ANT-MAN due to differences in their vision of the film. The decision to move on is amicable and does not impact the release date on July 17, 2015. A new director will be announced shortly.”
Wright, perhaps best known for his Cornetto Trilogy (Shaun Of The Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End) had taken leaps in recent years toward Hollywood. Even going so far as to dip his toes in the comic book waters with the brilliant Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World. What his next move is, who knows? It’s a travesty that he and the studio couldn’t reconcile their artistic differences though – especially since Wright had been involved since 2006!
This isn’t the first time Marvel have butted heads with more visionary directors. Thor: The Dark World at one point had Monster director Patty Jenkins attached. She quietly left the project after reportedly being fired due to creative differences. These kind of decisions, to revoke incredible opportunities from gifted filmmakers, are most likely out of fear. Fear of alienating a larger, dumber, audience.
Whatever the reason is, we’re gutted that Wright has left, and wish him the best of luck with his next project.
Starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas and Michael Pena, Ant-Man is still scheduled to open in theatres July 17th, 2015.