Earlier this week we discussed some of the reasoning behind Edgar Wright walking away from ANT-MAN. We can talk all day and night about that, and as unfortunate as it may be, it is now in the past. One of the focal points, however, was that Marvel had NOT pushed back the release date of July 17, 2015.
That either meant that Marvel was going to hire a new director quickly, or announce a delay further down the road. Seems as if they’re hellbent on getting this film made, as inside sources say that there are three names in particular being looked at to replaced Wright. Let’s get to it!
First up is Rawson Marshall Thurber. This man was more recently responsible for WE’RE THE MILLERS and DODGEBALL. Obviusly he has experience with comedic timing, as well as working with some great actors in that genre. For what its worth, his framing for DODGEBALL was more than adequate.
Next on the list is Adam McKay. This man obviously has plenty of comedic experience tucked under his belt with ANCHORMAN and ANCHORMAN 2: THE LEGEND CONTINUES. He’s also dabbled with action and effects with movies like TALLADEGA NIGHTS and THE OTHER GUYS.
Finally, we have Ruben Fleischer. Fleischer brought us one of the best genre pictures in ZOMBIELAND, and also directed the comedy 30 MINUTES OR LESS as well as the action picture GANGSTER SQUAD.
As you can see, there’s a running theme here with these choices. They primarily have comedic experience, as well as some being able to work with special effects and/or action. I’ll be honest and say that McKay is a choice that has me very excited, and I imagine it would put our lead star Paul Rudd at ease given that they’ve worked before. On the other hand, Fleischer was able to mix some great dramatic elements, as well as action, in his horror/comedy flick ZOMBIELAND. Given how fast this information has hit, I imagine a replacement will be announced in no time. Again, ANT-MAN is still on track to be released July 17, 2015.