While franchises are nothing new to Hollywood and pop culture, particularly in recent years, it's safe to say that the industry has never seen anything like the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In addition to its ever-growing library of films and projects, the MCU has been able to do what other franchises haven't in terms of their connective storytelling, the balance of fan service and fresh storytelling, and overall, consistency.
Therefore, it's no wonder that Lucasfilm, who many fans feel fail in the areas that Marvel succeeds, tapped the MCU's own He Who Remains - Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige - to tackle a Star Wars film.
However, neither Lucasfilm nor Feige has provided a timeline for this film's release, with only small details surfacing now and again from Loki's Michael Waldron's involvement to the film's focus on family; but now, a Marvel director has confirmed her willingness to cross franchises when Feige goes looking for a director.
Eternals' Chloe Zhao Would Direct Feige's Star Wars Film
When The Playlist asked Eternals director Chloe Zhao about Kevin Feige's Star Wars project and if she would consider directing a Star Wars film, Zhao answered by saying, "I would. I'll do anything Kevin asked me to do."
At this point, it's no secret that Zhao is an Academy Award-winning director and that Feige is a fan of her work. During the film's production and even upon its release, the Marvel Studios president talked about how her pitch for Eternals was one of the best he's ever heard.
The two also fielded questions from the press and discussed her unique vision for Marvel's latest film during the October 18, 2021 premiere of Eternals.
From Nomadland to the MCU to Star Wars?
While both Marvel and Star Wars fans, as well as the writers of What If...?, have clamored for some sort of crossover, the fact remains that the two franchises are already connected in several ways, from their shared parent company with Disney to Marvel's various Star Wars references to Mace Windu's own Samuel L. Jackson, who also plays Nick Fury.
Since Marvel's Feige and writer Michael Waldron have already crossed over to that galaxy far, far away, it wouldn't be surprising if a Marvel director did the same; and Zhao would make an ideal choice for several reasons.
First of all, Eternals is similar to Star Wars in that it's a vast, cosmic tale rooted in history but focused on small, personal stories. Secondly, Zhao is known for her visual craftsmanship, and her past success yields a level of credibility and attention that most blockbuster, franchise films fail to receive.
In fact, it's interesting to note Zhao's willingness to take on another major franchise when some might think she would want to return to independent, art-house filmmaking. It sounds like she enjoyed the leap; and since she claims she's up for anything Feige asks her to do, she clearly enjoyed her experience working with him.
It's possible that Marvel and Star Wars fans alike will hear more about Feige's Star Wars project - and whether Zhao is already signed on - during the upcoming Disney Plus Day on November 12, 2021.
Eternals will debut in theaters on November 5, 2021.
