When Nia DaCosta was offered the opportunity to direct The Marvels, she was no stranger to the studio experience, having directed the 2021 film Candyman. However, before embarking on the journey of working within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she sought advice from her friends and colleagues who had previously directed Marvel films. DaCosta had conversations with a wide range of directors, including Ryan Coogler, Chloé Zhao, and James Gunn. She found these discussions to be incredibly valuable, as they provided her with insider knowledge about the unique process of making movies within the Marvel universe.
In particular, DaCosta found James Gunn’s insights to be particularly helpful, as he was able to provide her with a new perspective on the challenges that she would face. Additionally, she spoke with her friend and frequent collaborator Tessa Thompson, who stars in DaCosta’s films and also plays the character Valkyrie in the MCU. Thompson’s insights and reassurance about working with Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, were invaluable to DaCosta as she prepared to take on the role of director for The Marvels.
As she delved into the process of bringing The Marvels to life, DaCosta faced the challenge of filming complex fight sequences in which the three protagonists switch places with each other whenever they use their powers. One of her favorite sequences involved a fight where Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Capt. Monica Rambeau are constantly switching and facing unexpected challenges. DaCosta took great care to be specific in her direction of these sequences, ensuring that the action was detailed and cohesive on screen.
Working with the three stars of the film was a highlight for DaCosta, particularly when they all came together for pivotal scenes. She emphasized the importance of the individual relationships between the characters and the impact of seeing them interact with each other for the first time. As the director, DaCosta recognized the significance of these dynamics and worked to capture the depth and complexity of their interactions on screen.
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In addition to the professional talents of the cast, DaCosta also noted the enthusiasm and infectious energy that Iman Vellani brought to the set. Vellani’s genuine passion for the Marvel universe and her role in the film were evident in her performance, and her dedication to the character of Ms. Marvel was a valuable asset to the production.
As The Marvels opens in theaters, it has already garnered attention and success, earning $6.6 million in Thursday previews. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the film demonstrate the impact of DaCosta’s direction and the combined talents of the cast and crew. Overall, Nia DaCosta’s journey to bring The Marvels to life has been shaped by valuable insights and experiences, ultimately leading to the creation of a film that promises to captivate audiences and make a significant impact within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
