‘Logan’ Filmmaker James Mangold on Why He Dislikes Movie Multiverses: “The Death of Storytelling”

‘Logan’ Filmmaker James Mangold on Why He Dislikes Movie Multiverses: “The Death of Storytelling”

As a devoted fan of James Mangold‘s cinematic work, I deeply respect his unique perspective towards storytelling and filmmaking. His unwavering commitment to focusing on each project’s individuality and emotional resonance is truly inspiring.


James Mangold has expressed that he’s clearly not a fan of cinematic multiverses.

The filmmaker has directed numerous sequels such as “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” (2023), “Logan” (2017) and “The Wolverine” (2013). However, it’s unlikely that he will take on a project in the Marvel Cinematic Universe due to its intricate “interconnected film series.”

Mangold recently told Rolling Stone that he doesn’t include multiverses in his work when asked if Johnny Cash, played by Joaquin Phoenix, would make an appearance in the upcoming Bob Dylan biopic featuring Timothée Chalamet. Mangold had previously directed Phoenix to an Oscar nomination for his role in “Walk the Line” (2005).

In “A Complete Unknown,” the film’s director assured fans that there would be no appearances or intersections of other characters, despite Boyd Holbrook’s portrayal of Johnny Cash.

Mangold shared his affection for Joaquin, acknowledging that he isn’t yet thirty, unlike Johnny during a particular point in their lives. They were both young at that stage. It seems strange to me that I’ve been involved in the IP entertainment industry because I don’t appreciate multi-movie universes. I believe it hinders storytelling and ultimately kills it. Instead, I find it more captivating how the various stories interconnect, rather than focusing on the intricacies of the universe itself.

Instead, he emphasized, “My focus is on identifying what sets this film apart and its distinctive characters, rather than reminding you of other movies or hidden meanings. I aim for an emotional connection with the audience, not an intellectual challenge.”

Franchises often add references to other films as Easter eggs or introduce character crossovers to keep viewers engaged. A recent example is “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021) that brought together the three Spider-Men portrayed by Tom Holland, Andrew Garfield, and Tobey Maguire.

More recently, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s multiverse has enabled Hugh Jackman to return as Wolverine for the upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine,” since in “Logan,” his portrayal of Wolverine made a sad farewell.

Mangold may not delve into the multiverse right now, but that doesn’t prevent him from taking on more franchise sequels. He will be the one behind the camera for Lucasfilm’s upcoming “Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi” production.

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2024-07-25 04:24