Chloé Zhao, known for her distinctive vision in filmmaking, recently reflected on her experiences with Marvel Studios, sharing insights into how her journey began long before she directed Eternals. Speaking candidly at a recent event, Zhao revealed she initially pursued a different project in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and made clear she is open to another collaboration, provided the right story aligns with her interests. The prospect of Chloé Zhao’s Marvel future continues to draw industry and fan attention as she maintains a strong creative presence in both superhero and other genre storytelling.
Zhao’s Unexpected Path to Marvel and Initial Interest
Before directing Eternals for Marvel Studios, Chloé Zhao actively sought the director’s chair for Black Widow, the solo film featuring Scarlett Johansson. She explained during an appearance at Puck’s Stories of the Season event that her attraction to Marvel projects stemmed from a decade spent immersed in travel across America, delving into nature, diverse communities, and philosophical questions about existence. This experience, she said, fueled a growing desire to tackle a story that could explore such themes on a larger canvas.
“For those 10 years when I was going around America and learning new ways of life and having a relationship with nature, there was something bubbling inside really intensely,”
Zhao explained, describing the internal spark that eventually led her toward Marvel’s mythological scale storytelling.
“The volcano reference erupted, and that was in the form of ‘Eternals.’ Because ‘Eternals’ at its heart is a story about a pantheon of gods having discussions about the nature of humanity. … And it was my way of trying to process all the questions I was having in those 10 years of making the first three films. Also, I love allegorical storytelling. I love mythology-building stories. I grew up in manga and anime. So it was amazing to be able to play in that world.”
— Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
Taking Initiative and Finding the Right MCU Fit
Chloé Zhao clarified that her entry into Marvel was driven by her own initiative rather than being discovered by the studio. She recounted, with humor, how she personally reached out to Marvel, stating that it was she who expressed interest, rather than merely responding to a call from the studio. Zhao’s first meetings with Marvel centered on Natasha Romanoff, known as Black Widow, but due to scheduling issues, she was unable to take on that project.
“It might be a mutual calling,”
Zhao described of her collaboration with Marvel.
“I went in at first for ‘Black Widow,’ and then there was a scheduling conflict. And then when Nate Moore, my producer for ‘Eternals,’ showed me the treatment, I went, Oh, wow. I get to have all these immortals, like a Greek play, to discuss humanity. And then I get to create monsters and space gods, right?”
— Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
This marked a turning point, shifting Zhao’s focus from a grounded spy adventure to the cosmic scale and philosophical depth of Eternals. She fully embraced the opportunity to build a saga about immortals grappling with questions about humanity, in tune with her enduring passion for allegory and myth.
Navigating the Challenges of Franchise Filmmaking
Though stepping into a major studio franchise could be daunting for many filmmakers, Zhao said that she did not let the commercial and logistical expectations intimidate her. Addressing whether she should have been more apprehensive about joining the MCU’s massive operation, she was candid about her approach to risk.
“It probably should have scared me,”
Zhao admitted.
“I don’t know. I tend to jump before I know how to swim.”
— Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
Her willingness to take creative leaps and learn through experience has become a central element of her storytelling style, as seen both in her independent work and her approach to large-scale studio films.
The Door Remains Open for Future Marvel Films
When asked directly if she would return to the MCU for another superhero film, Zhao did not hesitate in her response. Her openness to future Marvel projects is contingent on finding a story that resonates with her, treating each potential project as a creative partnership rather than a simple assignment. This approach aligns with how Zhao often describes her relationship to her work — as if stories choose her, guiding her next steps as a filmmaker.
“With the right story, if it chooses me.”
— Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
This lingering possibility keeps both Marvel Studios and Zhao’s fans wondering whether her unique voice will shape another chapter in the MCU, provided the right alignment of ideas and passion emerges again.
Creative Ventures Beyond the MCU
Zhao’s engagement with expansive, mythic themes is not limited to Marvel. She spoke about her recent partnership with Kodansha, the Japanese publishing house, highlighting her ambition to connect Eastern and Western storytelling traditions. Her goals include adapting manga or anime for global audiences and serving as a creative bridge between Japanese authors and the worldwide film industry.
“My whole life, it’s always been a dream to be able to create and foster more connection and understanding between the East and the West,”
Zhao expressed.
“It’s very meaningful to me, to be able to be a bridge between the Japanese authors and the international filmmakers, because there has been, traditionally, some difficulties in adapting Japanese manga anime into live action. There’s a lot of loss in translation.”
— Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
Upcoming Projects and Recent Successes
In addition to her work with Kodansha and Marvel, Zhao provided a significant update on her adaptation of Buffy for television. She confirmed that production on the show’s pilot is complete and expressed satisfaction with the result.
“Great, we shot it already. It’s done,”
Zhao reported. — Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
This project adds to an already packed slate, showcasing Zhao’s versatility and ongoing impact in genre storytelling, whether she is adapting iconic properties or creating original worlds of her own.
The Significance of Zhao’s Ongoing Influence
Chloé Zhao’s time with Marvel Studios, including her journey from a would-be Black Widow director to the architect of Eternals, reflects a sustained commitment to exploring big ideas through popular genres. Her openness to future collaborations with Marvel indicates that her creative journey in the superhero world is far from over. As Zhao continues to bridge cultures and adapt stories across mediums, her impact on global filmmaking and the MCU remains profound, suggesting that viewers may yet see her return for another ambitious Marvel project if inspiration strikes.
