Just what exactly is going on with Indiana Jones 5?
Franchise star Harrison Ford recently said production was slated to start within the next two months. Then word slipped out that there were still script troubles to iron out. Now, Variety is reporting that Steven Spielberg is no longer directing Indiana Jones 5.
Instead, James Mangold (Ford v Ferrari, Logan) is in talks to direct the upcoming sequel. Per Variety’s report:
Spielberg will remain as a hands-on producer on “Indy 5.” According to a source close to the filmmaker, the decision to leave the director’s chair was entirely Spielberg’s, in a desire to pass along Indy’s whip to a new generation to bring their perspective to the story.
Huh, I’m not sure how I feel about this. Indiana Jones without Spielberg in charge just seems strange. I’m a fan of Mangold’s work, but I don’t know if I support this. Spielberg rarely directs action-adventure films anymore, and I was really looking forward to seeing him behind the camera.
And what is with this “passing the whip to a new generation” bullshit?! I thought it had been confirmed that Ford is Indy and no one was going to replace him. I’m skeptical and Indy 6 with Ford is going to happen unless it’s fast tracked. I also have no interest in them recasting the role. (However, I am interested in Mutt Williams returning for Indy 5; sue me.)
Whether or not the film still makes its 2021 release date is anyone’s guess. This film has been delayed so often since Disney acquired Lucasfilm that I wouldn’t be shocked if it just gets cancelled.
What are your thoughts on Mangold potentially directing Indiana Jones 5? Yay or nay?
