We recently reported that David Slade and Robert Schwentke were both on a shortlist to direct “Wolverine 2” and that Robert Rodriguez was close to directing a Deadpool spin-off, but toss those ideas away for now. Fox's preferred choice for the next "Wolverine" is Slade, but Darren Aronofsky has just stated that he would like the job, potentially usurping the director’s chair and producer/star Hugh Jackman is keen on the idea.
Aronofsky is one of the most respected directors of his generation, with his films Requiem for a Dream and The Wrestler being met with critical acclaim. His latest film Black Swan is opening the Venice Film Festival and has buzz for awards glory: it will be released through Fox’s indie wing Fox Searchlight Pictures. Aronofsky has also worked with Jackman in the film The Fountain, which is best described as a love-it-or-hate-it film.
If you are still not convinced, Aronofsky has been sought out for comic-book and franchise movies before. He was Warner Brothers’ first choice to reboot Batman, going as far as writing an adaptation of Batman: Year One with its author Frank Miller. That idea of course evolved into Batman Begins for Christopher Nolan. He was also attached to direct Watchmen before that gig went to Zack Sydner. He was most recently going to direct a Robocop reboot before MGM financial problems put a stop to it.
Aronofsky’s films are known for their gritty and realistic setting and tones, in-depth characterization of faulted people, use of hand-held cameras and excellent acting. He would certainly be a bold choice, but he has a working relationship with Jackman. He would probably be in a strong position to stand up against studio interference consider his relationship with Fox/Fox Searchlight.
On the heel of "Wolverine 2" cast and crew news comes the bit where Ryan Reynolds (who played Deadpool in the first film) wishes the Merc with the Mouth to cross paths with Wolverine once more, regardless of the fact Deadpool is gearing up for his own spinoff film. Nothing is set in regards to Deadpool's cast and crew. Robert Rodriguez is still in talks to direct, though Deadline reports scheduling has become a conflict between Rodriguez and 20th Century Fox. With promotions in full swing for Machete and his upcoming filming dates for Spy Kids 4, Rodriguez hopes Deadpool can be pushed back to accomadate his schedule.
Should Fox be willing to push back production on Deadpool (highly unlikely considering they don't want to lose Reynolds to another Green Lantern film), it might help to keep the character fresh in our minds with "Wolverine 2."
