Earlier today, news broke out that Marvel Studios had three directors in mind to take over directing duties on Ant-Man following Edgar Wright’s sudden departure: Adam McKay (Anchorman, Step Brothers), Ruben Fleischer (Zombieland, Gangster Squad) and Rawson Thurber (We’re the Millers, Dodgeball).Â
According to The Wrap, it appears that Thurber is the current frontrunner, now that the various resumes and upcoming work schedules have been taken into consideration. While Marvel has declined to comment (and likely won’t say anything until they make an official announcement), here is what we know so far.
Fleischer appeared to be the best candidate from a resume-standpoint, thanks to an effects-driven comedy hit like Zombieland under his belt. However, he and his wife Holly Shakoor Fleischer have just had a baby, meaning he may be reluctant to sign up for a big directing commitment at the moment. Also, he’s being eyed for Ghostbusters 3 by Sony, whom he directed Zombieland for, so there’s a good chance he may jump on board that high-profile tentpole instead.
As far as McKay goes, he has the name value and past work experience with Ant-Man himself, Paul Rudd, but has his plate full with other projects under his and Will Ferrell’s production company, Gary Sanchez Productions. He often favors working with his own scripts as well, and likes the creative freedom to let the actors run wild with improvisation. Ant-Man’s tight schedule (as it veers ever-closer to its July 17th, 2015 release date) and more controlled production may turn him off of the film. He would be a good choice, but something like this seems like it doesn’t really fit within his comfort zone.
Thurber, on the other hand, is likely more willing to adhere to Disney and Marvel’s strict vision for the film. Sure, he doesn’t have quite the resume or name recognition that McKay and Fleischer do, but neither did the Russo Brothers, and they struck quite a homerun with Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Up-and-coming directors like Thurber, who could bring fresh ideas to VFX-heavy action films are the type of filmmakers Marvel usually sets their sights on (see: Jon Favreau, James Gunn, Alan Taylor.)
Of course, we won’t know anything for sure until Marvel makes an official announcement, which judging by all of the commotion, should be any day now. IN the meantime though, tell us, what do you think of Rawson Thurber directing Ant-Man? Do you think he would be a good choice, or would you rather see McKay or Fleischer land the job?
Published: May 30, 2014 08:39 pm