Marvel wants Ava DuVernay (‘Selma’) to direct diverse superhero flick
Why, just today I was shaking my fist at my perception that Marvel was going into some homogenous downward spiral. Well! Perhaps it was too soon. ‘Cause the House of Cinematic Ideas is courting Ava DuVernay to direct a movie.
Marvel is courting “Selma” filmmaker Ava DuVernay to direct one of its diverse superhero movies, which include “Black Panther” and “Captain Marvel,” multiple individuals with knowledge of the situation have told TheWrap. Insiders suggest that “Black Panther,” due first in July 2018, is the most likely possibility.
Marvel has had discussions with DuVernay about taking the reins of one of its marquee comic book properties and while the studio is considering other directors, there is mutual interest in having her join the MCU.
Marvel’s courtship surfaces on the same day that the American Civil Liberties Union asked state and federal agencies to investigate Hollywood’s hiring practices at major studios, networks and talent agencies. The ACLU has alleged rampant and intentional gender discrimination in recruiting and hiring female directors.
A woman has never directed a Marvel movie, though the company did hire Patty Jenkins to direct “Thor: The Dark World.” Following creative differences, she was eventually replaced by Alan Taylor. Jenkins recently replaced Michelle MacLaren as the director of “Wonder Woman” at Warner Bros., which has been eager to beat Marvel to the proverbial punch when it comes to diversity within its comic book movie universe.
Insiders told TheWrap that Marvel is intent on hiring an African-American director for “Black Panther” and a female filmmaker for “Captain Marvel.” DuVernay’s hiring would make her Marvel’s first African-American and first female director, which would no doubt double as a public relations boon for the company.