A new report from THR Avatar: The Way of Water creator Josh Friedman will direct the first Fantastic Four movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The author is also known for writing films like War of the Worlds and the Snowpiercer series, and he’s writing the upcoming Planet of the Apes movie.
Friedman contributed to Avatar 2’s story and world-building in the film, and will also co-star in the next three Avatar sequels.
Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer were previously slated to star in the film. The duo is also working together on Warner Bros.’s Disaster Wedding. Although the reason for their departure was not disclosed in the report, it is possible that Friedman’s experience working in science fiction compared to Kaplan and Springer’s comedic experience may have played a role.
Matt Shakman will direct Fantastic Four. The director has revealed that he left Star Trek 4 for this opportunity in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, saying that returning to Marvel is the right move. Although Shakman has yet to direct a movie in the MCU, he has directed all nine episodes of Disney+’s WandaVision.
It is noteworthy that the Fantastic Four movie will launch the sixth phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe when it is released in cinemas on November 8, 224.