Logan director James Mangold slams cinematic universes

James Mangold, the director behind hits like "Logan" and "Indiana Jones 5," has expressed strong opinions against cinematic universes. Despite his involvement in major IP projects such as the "Wolverine" films and the upcoming "Star Wars" and "Swamp Thing," Mangold criticizes multi-movie universe-building as detrimental to storytelling. His remarks highlight the tension between creating standalone narratives and the commercial drive for interconnected movie franchises. Mangold believes that focusing on unique character stories rather than Easter eggs and references is crucial for emotional storytelling, even though he acknowledges his role in these larger franchises.

James Mangold criticizes cinematic universes because he believes they prioritize franchise connectivity and Easter eggs over deep, emotional storytelling. Despite directing several films in established franchises, he advocates for creating unique, standalone narratives that focus on character development and originality.

James Mangold is known for his work on "Logan," a critically acclaimed film that concludes Hugh Jackman's portrayal of Wolverine. This film stands out for its darker, more personal storyline compared to other superhero films, emphasizing Mangold's commitment to character-driven narratives. Additionally, Mangold directed "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," the fifth installment in the Indiana Jones franchise, further showcasing his versatility in handling major IPs while striving to maintain a unique storytelling approach.