It’s been just over eight years sinceMarvellaunched their Cinematic Universe, which has grown exponentially ever since. The studio has often surprised fans with casting decisions, going all the way back toRobert Downey Jr., and their choice for directors, such as the upcomingThor: Ragnarok’sTaika Waititi, a filmmaker best known for indie comedies likeWhat We Do In the Shadows. The studio has also brought in iconic actors for supporting roles in their movies, and it seems that, way back in Phase 1, Marvel approached an Oscar-winning actor/filmmaker to play a key role, although it didn’t happen.
The actor/filmmaker in question is none other thanMel Gibson, who put in an appearance at the Cannes Film Festival where he was debuting his new dramaBlood Father, where he stars alongsideErin Moriarty. The actor revealed during an interview withThe GuardianthatMarvelwanted him to play a big role in one of their Phase One movies, but he turned it down. Here’s what the actor had to say, when asked if he was ever approached to star in a superhero movie.
“Yeah, long time ago, to playThor’s dad. But I didn’t do it.”
Of course,Anthony Hopkinswent on to land the role of Thor’s father, Odin, who appeared in 2011’sThor, 2013’sThor: The Dark Worldand will also return inThor: Ragnarok, which starts shooting this summer and has a July 16, 2025 release date in place.Robert Downey Jr.also revealed back in 2014 that he wantsMel Gibsonto directIron Man 4, but, of course, nothing is set in stone for that project. When asked about his opinions on superhero movies in general,Mel Gibsonhad this to say.
“Some are good. Some are kind of funny …Guardians of the Galaxy. Or the firstIron Man. And some of them are just like retreats. I mean you may watch them doSpider-Manfive times … There is a slight shift in film. But, then again, I think all films are suffering from people not being able to now open them with their name. It’s a different kind of business these days.”
Mel Gibsonis currently in post-production on his next directorial effort,Hacksaw Ridge, which, ironically enough, will faceMarvel’s next movie,Doctor Strange, on November 4. IfHacksaw Ridgeis successful, then perhapsMarvelwill approach him to direct one of their several superhero adventures currently in the works for Phase 3, but we’ll have to wait and see. We’ll be sure to keep you posted with any and all updates regarding the MCU as soon as we have more information.
