In a COVID-free alternate universe, the world would have already seen Chloe Zhao’s blockbuster directorial debut in Marvel Studios’ “Eternals.” The film was originally scheduled for release in November before being delayed several times all the way into November 2021, where it is currently set up. And of all the Phase 4 features, “Eternals” might be the most interesting, as it is a brand-new franchise with a superstar ensemble. But most of all, it’s exciting because Zhao is behind the camera, coming off of acclaimed indie dramas like “The Rider” and the forthcoming “Nomadland.” So, why did she make the leap to Marvel? Well, it has more to do with her childhood than maybe her bank account.
READ MORE: ‘Nomadland’ Trailer: Chloé Zhao’s Festival Favorite Comes To Theaters In February
Speaking to fellow filmmaker, Barry Jenkins (via Variety), Zhao discussed the decision to make the leap from low-budget indie dramas to $200 million superhero blockbusters. And her desire to step into the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes from a deep appreciation of Japanese manga and what Marvel has done with its world-building.
“I grew up with manga,” explained Zhao. “I have to just say, we didn’t have movies when I was growing up, not the same way that you guys had access to films, but I did have just cabinets and cabinets of Japanese manga. I just devoured them. That was my first love. I wanted to be a manga artist, but I was not very good at drawing. I have been a fan of the MCU for the last decade. So, I put the word out there that I wanted to make a Marvel movie and the right project came to me.”
She added, “I just wanted to work with that team. Again, back to world-building. It is my favorite thing. That’s why I love ‘Star Wars.’ There is a world that is so rich. I wanted to enter it and see what I can do. It’s the same as what you’re saying. Can I put a spin on it while still being true to the essence of it? That’s exciting to me. It’s not that different than me going to the world of rodeo cowboys and saying, ‘My spin on that is going to be this,’ and it’s a collaboration. The chemistry of that, when it’s right, it could be very exciting.”
We often hear about Marvel Studios, in particular, drafting young, up-and-coming filmmakers to tackle the studio’s blockbusters. The Russo Brothers, Jon Watts, Scott Derrickson, James Gunn, and Ryan Coogler are just several of the filmmakers that Marvel has utilized. Now, Zhao joins the ranks and is looking to make the step from being an indie auteur to being a tentpole filmmaker. And judging by her previous work, we’re excited to see what she brings.
“Eternals” is scheduled (currently) to be released on November 5, 2021.
