After the critical reception of the Taika Waititi-directed MCU endeavor, Thor: Love and Thunder, recent reports allude to him not returning for the next installment of Thor. When it comes to the Chris Hemsworth and Natalie Portman-led film, many were wary of how the portrayal of the God of Thunder was tackled. Some felt that it was an inconsistent attempt with Waititi’s comedic narrative increasingly growing repetitive. While many had lauded 2017’s Thor: Ragnarok for some of the similar elements, the second time around the audience was not too pleased.
According to the report by GFR, Taika Waititi, who already seems to have a lot going on for him, will not return for the next Thor movie. The reason has mostly to do with the split audience reception, leaning mostly towards scrutinizing criticism. Thor: Love and Thunder received a critic rating of 65% on Rotten Tomatoes which thoroughly resonates with the viewpoint of most who consumed the film. Hence, it comes off as no surprise to see Waititi step down as the director of Thor 5.
Why Taika Waititi Will Not Return To Direct Thor 5?
When Taika Waititi graced the world of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with his directorial attempt through Ragnarok, many showed extensive and overwhelming support. Some believed that the New Zealand filmmaker brought a unique, comedic, and sci-fi flair to the franchise, and transformed characters like Thor and Hulk. Impressed by the critical success and favorable reception of the third installment, people had high expectations from Love and Thunder.
However, as it appears, the Internet was completely torn after the 2022 film’s release. While some expressed their appreciation, owing to how Waititi’s stylistic approach is naturally favored by few, others were majorly upset. With people slamming the film for poor, low-quality CGI, tremendous reliance on punchlines and comedy, straying away from a serious tonality, and lack of screen time for Christian Bale’s Gorr and Natalie Portman‘s Jane Foster, the movie felt like a lackluster endeavor, at best.
According to GFR, the Jojo Rabbit director feels as though he wouldn’t be able to please the audience by using his comedic trickery for Thor 5. Such a statement is understandable; audiences do grow increasingly tired of the same, over-done concepts. Thor: Love and Thunder is no such exception.
Besides, the Our Flag Means Death actor has a lot of ongoing projects to dedicate himself to. If Taika Waititi is indeed stepping down from the next Thor film, it makes sense for him to take a break and focus instead on what he does best.
Fans’ Reaction To the News
When the news broke of Taika Waititi reportedly not returning as the director for the next installment, most fans were beyond ecstatic. Taking to Twitter, many expressed how big of a win this is for the franchise. On the other hand, some appeared rather clueless; having actively enjoyed the premise of Love and Thunder. Mostly though, the fans of MCU are happy to bid goodbye to the director, who apparently, “turned Thor and Hulk into a joke.”
Following is what some of the fans had to say:
Kenneth Branagh did exactly that and y'all hated it😭😭
— Allfather Odin | Nazuna era #MakeTASM3 (@Borrson_Odin) August 30, 2022
I like Taika Waititi's take on Thor, but I also do really value seeing the same IP through a different lens, as long as that lens is distinctive. If he wants to move on, that's ok
— MH (@DapperSteve) August 30, 2022
So the man that turned Thor and Hulk into a joke, it’s not coming back. https://t.co/YHzG1Hhh99 pic.twitter.com/wbHuc18U4s
— Doctor Omega (@DoctorOmega09) August 31, 2022
Nothing about Thor Love & Thunder made me say “I can’t wait to see what Taika Waititi does with Thor 5!”
— Houtopian (@_RegularJoe) August 30, 2022
There’s gonna be a 5th Thor movie? https://t.co/mRtMnIsaAs pic.twitter.com/Ls7Nb1sLX9
— Diego Rivera (@DiegoRiveraYT) August 31, 2022
While fans are yet to receive an official confirmation on whether or not the report represents the absolute truth, the mere thought of Taika Waititi’s absence from the next Thor film has many overjoyed. Some believe that other directors should be given the chance to portray the Asgardian God through their intrinsic lens and unique perspectives. As for now, what the future brings is not known.
Thor: Love and Thunder will be making its scheduled arrival on Disney+ on September 8th.
Source: GFR
