As anticipation builds for the release of Deadpool & Wolverine on July 26, director Shawn Levy is emerging as a leading candidate to helm the next Avengers film. Sources indicate that Levy is having preliminary discussions to direct the upcoming Marvel Studios project.
Levy has reportedly received the latest script from Michael Waldron, though he has yet to decide whether to take on the role. Marvel Studios plans to meet with other potential directors as they await Levy’s decision.
Levy’s potential involvement comes at a busy time for the director, who is also committed to directing and executive producing the final season of Netflix’s Stranger Things. Additionally, a Star Wars film is on his horizon. Nonetheless, Levy’s potential to direct the next Avengers film aligns well with Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige’s efforts to shape the future of the superhero franchise.
The Avengers franchise has seen four blockbuster films: the first two directed by Joss Whedon (The Avengers, grossing $1.5 billion in 2012, and Avengers: Age of Ultron, grossing $1.4 billion) and the latter two by Joe and Anthony Russo (Avengers: Infinity War, grossing $2.05 billion, and Avengers: Endgame, which became the highest-grossing film of all time with $2.8 billion until Avatar reclaimed the title with $2.9 billion after re-releases).
Despite the absence of a confirmed director and a recently completed script, Marvel has been diligently preparing to commence filming next year on what is expected to be one of its largest productions. Insiders suggest that over 60 Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) characters may return, including Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hiddleston, Simu Liu, and Karen Gillan. Unlike the previous films, which featured a core group of characters led by Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Hemsworth, and Ruffalo, this installment is likely to have a more ensemble-focused cast.
Plot details remain under wraps, and following Jonathan Majors’ departure from the MCU as Kang after his assault conviction in December, the central villain or potential multiple antagonists are yet to be determined.
The upcoming Avengers film represents a significant endeavor for Marvel, with substantial implications for future projects. Levy’s impressive track record, including films like Night at the Museum, The Pink Panther, Big Fat Liar, Date Night, Real Steel, Free Guy, The Adam Project, and the series All The Light We Cannot See, positions him as a fitting choice for the MCU’s ambitious demands.
Levy’s success as a producer at 21 Laps, particularly with Stranger Things, further underscores his capability to handle large-scale productions.
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