The Russo Brothers, Joe and Anthony, have been behind some of the most successful movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Their impressive track record includes directing “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” which grossed $714 million on a $170 million budget, “Captain America: Civil War,” which earned $1.153 billion on a $250 million budget, and the massive hits “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame,” which collectively grossed over $4.85 billion.
Despite their success, it seems they won’t be returning to direct “Avengers 5.” But why?
Why Marvel Might Say No to the Russos
According to Jeff Sneider on the Hot Mic podcast, Marvel Studios and Disney are eager to announce the director for “Avengers 5” at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC).
However, it appears that Shawn Levy, known for his work on “Deadpool” and “Wolverine,” is not in the running, despite rumors.
Sneider also revealed that the Russo Brothers had expressed interest in directing the film but are unlikely to get the gig.
A major factor behind this decision seems to be budget concerns.
Sneider mentioned that the upcoming “Captain America: Brave New World” had a staggering production cost of $375 million after reshoots.
This high budget is reportedly a reason why Marvel Studios is hesitant to bring back the Russo Brothers for “Avengers 5.”
The Russos’ recent project, “The Electric State” for Netflix, allegedly cost around $370 million to make, significantly more than the previously rumored $300 million.
This trend of high-budget films conflicts with Marvel Studios and Disney’s current mission to reduce costs.
Even though “Avengers 5″ is expected to be a major blockbuster, maintaining a massive budget could jeopardize its profitability.
Sneider explained, “If you’re Marvel, yes, it’s Avengers 5, you’re already breaking the bank on talent, right? Because you’re getting 66 people back, I think it is, do you really spend money to bring the Russos back when they also can’t control a budget on a movie like ‘The Electric State?’ Even if you’re making Avengers, you’re trying to rein in budgets.”
“And if they just made Electric State for $370 [million], I mean, I don’t know how you give it to them as good of a movie as they may make, and as good of a track record as they may have, I think you’re trying to shed costs and they’re also expensive,” he continued.
The Russo Brothers have undeniably proven their ability to deliver successful, high-grossing films.
However, their recent history with escalating budgets appears to be a concern for Marvel Studios.
While fans may have hoped to see the dynamic duo return for another Avengers installment, the financial strategies of Marvel and Disney seem to be steering them in a different direction.
It’s clear that balancing quality filmmaking with budget constraints is a critical challenge for the studio.