If Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige has it his way, Ryan Coogler will be back to direct Black Panther 2. Marvel Studios is beginning to roll Black Panther out into theaters this week to great results. The early reactions from the movie praised nearly everything it had to offer. Not only is it getting critical praise, but it appears to be poised for a box office haul worthy of a king. Thanks to all of these factors and Marvel's history, there will surely be a sequel, even if it isn't officially announced just yet.
Once everyone can see Black Panther, there will be a better understanding for where future adventures could go. But, Avengers: Infinity War could also play a big role in shaping T'Challa's viewpoint moving forward. When the sequel does happen, it will hopefully do so with many of the first film's cast members returning to the rich nation of Wakanda. Bringing back director Ryan Coogler is also a major goal.
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Variety spoke to Kevin Feige and asked him about plans for Black Panther 2. He was quick to note that there have been no official announcements made about a sequel, but such an announcement is merely a formality at this point. Whenever the announcement is made, plenty of eyes will be drawn to whether or not Ryan Coogler returns to direct. In response to being asked if Coogler will direct the sequel, Feige said, "I hope so." Then to the followup question, Feige says he "absolutely" wants Coogler back.
Feige's interest in retaining Coogler is hardly a surprise. Despite the movie having yet to debut in most theaters, there's little reason to believe Black Panther won't be one of Marvel's biggest films ever. It has continued to be praised for the villain, fully realized female characters, and political elements that allows it to exceed what the typical superhero movie has to offer. Plus, Black Panther marks a third critical hit for Coogler following Fruitvale Station and Creed. He's surely going to be one of Hollywood's most sought after directors, so why wouldn't Feige want him back?
Whether or not that does happen could come down to scheduling. Marvel Studios typically likes to turn around a sequel three years after the original, especially for a hit like Black Panther. Coogler's previously announced he'd reunite with Michael B. Jordan once again for his fourth feature Wrong Answers, but that could be pushed back to accommodate Marvel's plans. He's also executive producing Creed 2, so his level of involvement there could determine how quickly he would even be able to start work on Black Panther 2.
Despite all of that, Marvel Studios and Feige have a great track record when it comes to retaining directors who they feel deliver. Jon Favreau, Joss Whedon, Joe and Anthony Russo, and James Gunn have all directed multiple films, while Peyton Reed and Jon Watts will do so soon. Plus, it is believed that Scott Derrickson will also return for Doctor Strange 2. Coogler could be next to join these ranks, and Marvel would be wise to do whatever it takes to make that happen.
MORE: Black Panther Producer Hopes Characters Return In Sequels & Crossovers
Black Panther 2 has yet to be officially announced.
Source: Variety
