Written by Matt Taylor
Director Ryan Coogler to Helm Black Panther Solo Film
After a lengthy period of speculation, Marvel finally confirmed that Creed director Ryan Coogler will be stepping behind the camera for Black Panther, one of the many films planned for Phase Three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Black Panther, to be played by Chadwick Boseman, has been a fan favorite amongst comic book readers for 50 years, and will mark the first black superhero to grace the big screen in their own film. In the comics, Black Panther is the king of a technologically advanced nation called Wakanda, as well as a member of The Avengers.
Coogler first emerged as a filmmaker in 2013 with his award-winning debut, Fruitvale Station, based on the heartbreaking true story of Oscar Grant, a victim of police brutality. This year, Coogler had a blockbuster hit on his hands with Creed, the latest installment in the Rocky Balboa saga. The film was a financial success, a critical darling, and recently earned Sylvester Stallone a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor.
“The talents Ryan showcased in his first two films easily made him our top choice to direct Black Panther,” said producer Kevin Feige in a statement on Marvel.com. “Many fans have waited a long time to see Black Panther in his own film, and with Ryan we know we’ve found the perfect director to bring T’Challa’s story to life.”
Black Panther will arrive in theaters on February 16, 2018, but audiences will get their first taste of the hero when he appears in Captain America: Civil War on May 6.
