With rumors of many African American directors being considered for Marvel’s Black Panther film adaptation, Falcon actor Anthony Mackie says it’s not necessary to hire a black director for the new superhero film.
The Captain America: Civil War star was asked about the ongoing director search during an interview with The Daily Beast, and revealed that skin color shouldn’t be the prerequisite for directing Black Panther, but the person best equipped to tell the character’s story. Read what he said below:
“I don’t think it’s important at all. As a director your job is to tell a story. You know, they didn’t get a horse to direct ‘Seabiscuit!’ The thing is I don’t think the race of the director has to do with their ability to tell a story. I think it’s all about the director’s ability to be able to relate to that story and do it justice. I think men can direct women, and two of my greatest work experiences were with female directors. So I think it all depends. May the best man — or woman — win.”
Related: Rumor control: Anthony Mackie did not endorse Donald Trump
First, we have to note how hilarious his Seabiscuit reference is, but it’s nice to see a person of color bringing up the fact that women characters or superheroes of color don’t necessarily need someone of the same race or gender to direct their films.
Marvel was reportedly looking at Selma director Ava DuVernay to direct one of their quote-unquote diverse superhero movies, likely Captain Marvel or Black Panther. As it turns out she revealed she didn’t feel like she and Marvel were on the same page.
While everyone agrees we should see a lot more women and people of color helming Marvel’s (and all studios’) projects, it’s a bit refreshing to hear Anthony Mackie publicly say that the best director should always get the job.
Mackie will have a major role as the Falcon in Marvel’s upcoming films, and we can’t wait to once again see him up on the big screen alongside Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, and Robert Downey Jr.
Anthony Mackie can be seen next in Marvel’s highly anticipated Captain America: Civil War, which hits theaters on May 6, 2016.
Source: The Daily Beast
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