Exclusive: Marvel’s Secret Bid for Coogler to Lead X-Men Movie Revealed!

by

The latest news indicates that Marvel Studios considered hiring Ryan Coogler, renowned for his work on Black Panther films and projects like Creed, Fruitvale Station, and the upcoming 2025 vampire hit Sinners, to direct an X-Men movie.

Initially, it seemed that Jake Schreier would direct Marvel Studios’ X-Men film, but according to insider Jeff Sneider, Ryan Coogler was once considered for the role as well. Speculation about Marvel Cinematic Universe’s adaptation of Marvel’s mutant team has been growing, with talks of potential cast members, plotlines, and release dates circulating online.

On the The Hot Mic Podcast, I shared my insights, mentioning that they did have discussions with Ryan Coogler about the project initially. However, the project eventually took a different path due to what I refer to as a matter of timing. It’s important to note that his next Marvel Cinematic Universe endeavor seems to be Black Panther 3.

However, given the schedule, it seems that Coogler will be required to concentrate on ‘Black Panther 3’. He has other duties to attend to within a different part of the universe.

Rumors have circulated that Coogler declined the opportunity to work on a movie centered around the X-Men universe, although he himself has not spoken about it. Various names were mentioned as those who turned down the Marvel Studios project.

Rob Liefeld, the creator of Deadpool comics, expressed on X not long after Schreier was named as the potential director for the X-Men movie, hinted that fans would be astonished to learn about the numerous directors who declined the opportunity.

“If I told you the names that passed on this directorial opportunity, your heads would spin…”

The upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) X-Men movie hasn’t been given a release date yet, but it has been in development for quite some time within the superhero franchise. A week after his Thunderbolts film hit theaters, Jake Schreier was rumored to be the front-runner to direct the upcoming X-Men film.

In this upcoming movie, Marvel Studios is venturing into uncharted territory by introducing a fresh perspective on their mutant team, which hasn’t been showcased in their series up until now. Instead, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has primarily focused on legacy characters such as Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine and Patrick Stewart’s Professor X.

Why Marvel Studios Made the Right Choice With Its X-Men Director

It could be argued that Ryan Coogler has demonstrated his exceptional abilities as a filmmaker, yet perhaps it was beneficial for him not to helm Marvel Studios’ X-Men film.

Coogler’s portrayal of Wakanda within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has gained an iconic status. His deep understanding of this universe and its characters is evident. Therefore, it would be beneficial for the studio to continue involving him in the development of this specific segment of the Marvel universe.

If Coogler decided to work on an X-Men film (a move that could potentially result in a spectacular production), it might divert him from the much-discussed but yet-to-be-realized Black Panther 3, which Marvel Studios has been eagerly trying to launch.

If Coogler doesn’t seem particularly enthusiastic about directing an X-Men film (which appears not to be the case), it would make sense for Marvel to respect his feelings and allow him to focus on what truly inspires him within the MCU. If this means continuing with the Black Panther franchise, where he has been involved since its inception, then it would be prudent to give him that opportunity.

Under consideration for the directorial role could be Jake Schreier, bringing yet another seasoned professional into Marvel Studios who’s demonstrated an aptitude for creating group superhero movies, such as those featuring the X-Men.

Read More

2025-05-12 04:01