(Image Source: Marvel Studios)
After helming two installments of the "Thor" franchise, Taika Waititi confirmed he would not return to direct a fifth film. Marvel Studios has since been searching for a new director, with Gareth Edwards, known for 2014's "Godzilla," previously rumored as a top contender. However, entertainment outlet World of Reel now reports that Marvel is in talks with George Miller (pictured right below) to take over the reins.
(Image Source: People)
Miller, who rose to prominence for creating the "Mad Max" series, has a history with superhero films. In 2007, he was slated to direct "Justice League: Mortal," a "Justice League" movie, but Warner Bros. Pictures unfortunately halted production just before filming, citing the need for script revisions. The subsequent Writers Guild of America strike prevented any script changes, and by the time the strike concluded, Warner Bros. had lost interest in resuming the project, effectively shelving the film.
(Image Source: Warner Bros. Pictures)
Miller's renewed connection to the superhero genre is largely due to Chris Hemsworth, who recently collaborated with Miller on "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga." Hemsworth reportedly facilitated a meeting between Miller and Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige. Feige has been actively seeking directors for a new standalone "Hulk" film, "World War Hulk." Miller has expressed interest to Marvel in directing both "Thor 5" and "World War Hulk," with the final decision pending the outcome of their discussions.
Production Weekly recently reported that "World War Hulk" is currently slated to begin filming this year. Additionally, rumors suggest that "Captain America: Brave New World" will lay the groundwork for Hulk's return, and "Thunderbolts," set to debut in May, will feature a more direct storyline connection to "World War Hulk."