Kenneth Branagh was always an inspired choice as the director for "Thor." Even when Marvel first announced his involvement, the collaboration felt simultaneously unexpected and entirely natural, and when the film finally opened in theaters, critics praised Branagh for bringing his Shakespearean experience to the table and making a movie that took itself seriously, but not too seriously.
The quality of the end result was no coincidence. In a recent interview with Variety, Branagh talked about his experiences with the production and his love of the story.
"Of all the American comics, 'Thor' was the only one I was really familiar with from my childhood, and it intrigued me, maybe because it was a bit more European, with those Viking helmets and its basis in Norse myth," Branagh said. "The scale was exciting, and I did love the character and the story. It had depth and gravity in addition to being an entertaining ride."
According to the Variety story, Branagh considered the entire project "a joy," and that his decision to turn down the sequel was not out of any bad feelings, but because of timing. "Monster" director, Patty Jenkins, will take over for "Thor 2."
But are other Marvel properties out of the question? Branagh leaves his options open, saying "I certainly wouldn't rule out a return to Marvel; we had an excellent collaboration."
With Marvel planning on kicking off a new cycle of film projects after "The Avengers" this May, there are a bevy of characters Branagh could potentially tackle. Even though it's not Marvel Studios territory (not yet at least), I personally have to recommend Branagh for a Venom-Carnage film. Who wouldn't like to see a Shakespearean father-son drama acted out by two symbiotes and their hosts? The characters could use some refinement!
What Marvel film would you like to see Kenneth Branagh direct? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter!