Update:
Today, at Disney’s D23 Expo, it was confirmed that Matt Shakman will direct Marvel’s latest attempt at bringing the Fantastic Four to the masses with a brand-new film. Frustratingly, that’s the only update we got about the anticipated film. No casting announcements, plot details, or concept art. Nothing. I suppose it’s best to keep things close to the vest until all is ready to be revealed, but I really want to know who’s playing Marvel’s first family in their latest big-screen adventure. Meanwhile, Shakman is a fine choice to direct the movie, and I can’t wait to see his approach to one of Marvel’s flagship properties.
Original Article:
The Fantastic Four is coming to the big screen…yes, again. This much we knew, but it remained unclear for months who exactly would be tasked with resurrecting the superhero quartet. Now we know The Fantastic Four will be WandaVision’s Matt Shakman, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
In April, Jon Watts, who helmed the entire new Spider-Man trilogy, left the project, leaving the director’s chair vacant. Just two months ago, sources suggested they would be “shocked if a choice is made before labor day.” Well, ten days before Labor Day, Matt Shakman has taken on the role of The Fantastic Four director, landing one of the key duties in the Marvel Cinematic Universe..
The Fantastic Four was officially teased on the big screen in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, with John Krasinski turning up as Reed Richards. Krasinski will presumably reprise the role in The Fantastic Four, although no cast has been confirmed.
Matt Shakman is no stranger himself to the MCU. His most notable work to date is Disney+’s WandaVision, directing all nine episodes and nabbing two Emmy nominations. His TV credits include Game of Thrones, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Hulu’s The Great.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige previously stated that The Fantastic Four will not be an origin story.
Matt Shakman’s next film before The Fantastic Four begins production is the new Star Trek movie, slated for a December 2023 release.
The Fantastic Four is scheduled to be released in November 2024, kicking off Phase Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, capping The Multiverse Saga. Phase Six will also include, at minimum, Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars.
What are your thoughts on Matt Shakman directing? Do you think he can handle a feature-length MCU movie? Are you excited for Phase Six?