Warner Bros. has successfully secured the rights to Ryan Coogler's highly anticipated next feature film. Coogler, known for his work on films like 'Black Panther' and 'Creed,' will both write and direct the movie, while Michael B. Jordan is set to star. The film will be produced by Coogler's production company, Proximity Media, alongside Zinzi Coogler and Sev Ohanian.
The acquisition by Warner Bros. comes after an intense three-week bidding war between various movie companies, with Universal and Warner Bros. emerging as the final contenders. One of the major factors that made this package so appealing was the reunion of Coogler and Jordan, a dynamic duo that has proven to be both artistically and financially successful in the past. The two have collaborated on projects like the 'Black Panther' movies, 'Creed,' and 'Fruitvale Station.'
Sources reveal that the studio and Coogler are moving swiftly, with plans to begin production as early as April in New Orleans. While details of the deal remain undisclosed, it is rumored that Coogler will retain certain rights to the project over time, hinting at a potential for long-term ownership.
This project was among several highly sought-after packages in Hollywood following the Christmas to New Year break. Other notable deals included the three-movie sequel plan for '28 Days Later' by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, which found a home at Sony. Additionally, Steven Soderbergh's spy thriller, 'Black Bag,' was picked up by Focus Features last month. However, the Coogler project stood out due to its originality, commercial potential, and the opportunity to work with a talented filmmaker who is currently a free agent after his involvement in studio franchises.
Although specific details about the film are being kept under wraps, sources describe it as a period thriller, potentially set in the Jim Crow-era South, involving the undead. Some insiders have also mentioned the incorporation of anime influences, which aligns with Jordan's well-known enthusiasm for the genre. The exact manner in which these influences will be integrated into the project, however, remains unknown.
The deal was brokered by WME, the agency representing both Coogler and Jordan. As fans eagerly await more information about this intriguing collaboration, excitement continues to build around the talented team and the possible future franchise that they may deliver to audiences worldwide. We can only anticipate that this upcoming film will be another groundbreaking addition to Coogler's impressive filmography.
