Indiana Jones 5 could be getting a new director. For the first time in the history of the franchise, someone other than Steven Spielberg will be directing Indy. This comes as news came out today from Variety that Steven Spielberg has chosen to take on a hands on producer role over directing the fifth film in the franchise. In his place, James Mangold is in talks to direct.
At this point, nothing is a done deal. Sources are telling Variety that while Mangold is in talks to direct, the deal hasn’t closed. In 2017, Mangold came in and took over the directing duties for Logan in the Wolverine franchise. This movie was a box office and critical success. He also earned an Oscar nominations for adapted screenplay for these efforts.
Steven Spielberg won’t be stepping completely aside from he film. Reports are that the change of director was his idea as he wanted a new perspective for the franchise. He will still be a hands-on producer and very much part of the fifth Indiana Jones film. Spielberg did a similar thing with the Jurassic Park/World franchise. This change may not be surprising as George Lucas, who has come up with the previous Indy stories, has retired and wasn’t expected to be a part of this film.
What isn’t changing is the title role. Harrison Ford will again don the fedora as he again comes to the silver screen as Indiana Jones. Currently the film is slated to arrive in theaters on July 9, 2021. With a potential change in director though, this date could end up changing again (it was originally slated for 2019 and then 2020).
What do you think about James Mangold potentially directing Indiana Jones 5? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
