‘Straight Outta Compton’, straight into Wakanda?  Maybe, if F. Gary Gray– who’s biopic of the seminal rap group N.W.A. hits theaters this month and is already generating great buzz– gets his way.  The ‘Italian Job’ helmer was previously in the running to direct ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ but bowed out to take on ‘Straight Outta Compton.’  (He was replaced by The Russo Brothers, who did a bang-up job.)  The director is also known for his films ‘Law Abiding Citizen,’ ‘The Negotiator,’ ‘Set It Off’ as well as the comedy classic ‘Friday’ and countless music videos.  His diverse resumé displays a knack for thrilling action, drama and comedy not to mention style, all of which factor heavily into Marvel’s establish super hero films.

When he was recently questioned as to whether he was being considered for ‘Black Panther’, he replied:

“I would love to direct a superhero movie, man. We’ll see what happens. If it’s right, I’m there.”

The job was most recently offered to Ava DuVernay, the director of ‘Selma,’ who came close to accepting but ultimately parted ways with the studio over divergent views on ‘Black Panther”s direction.

‘Black Panther’ isn’t due until 2018, so it’s not as if Marvel is scrambling to find a director, but early development usually takes a bit of time and as of now, the only part cast is Chadwick Boseman as the film’s title hero.  Boseman will make his film debut a lot sooner, however, in next year’s ‘Captain America: Civil War’ and steps have already taken to set up the solo film, with Andy Serkis as T’Challa’s arch enemy Ulysses Klaue (a.k.a. Klaw) already appearing in ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron.’  Word is that Martin Freeman‘s mystery character from ‘Civil War’ will also play a part in ‘Black Panther’.

With ‘Straight Outta Compton’ already getting awards buzz, it might be a good idea for Marvel to lock Gray in now, provided they are considering him for this venture.  Should he win any major prizes, that could drive up his asking price and demand for his work on other projects.  If Marvel signs him now, any subsequent accolades will only add prestige to and drive interest in any films they entrust to Gray.

What do you think?  Does Gray have what it takes to handle ‘Black Panther’ or any other Marvel projects?

Source: Cinema Blend