Taika Waititi Opens Up About Directing Thor: Ragnarok

No Interest in Directing a Marvel Film

Taika Waititi recently discussed his initial feelings about directing Thor: Ragnarok in an interview on the SmartLess podcast. He admitted that he had no interest in making one of those films and that it wasn't part of his career plan as an auteur. However, he ultimately decided to take the job because he was facing financial difficulties.

Waititi explained that he had just had a second child and needed the opportunity to support his family. He saw directing Thor: Ragnarok as a great way to make money and provide for his children.

Thor as the Least Popular Franchise

Waititi also confessed that he had little knowledge or interest in Thor prior to being approached by Marvel Studios. He admitted that Thor was probably the least popular franchise among the Marvel superheroes and that he never read Thor comics as a kid.

However, he did some research on the character and read a Thor comic to familiarize himself with the source material. Despite his initial bafflement, he decided to take on the challenge of directing the film.

Taking on the Franchise and Its Success

When Marvel Studios contacted Waititi to direct Thor: Ragnarok, he admitted that he initially felt it was the bottom of the barrel in terms of opportunities. Nevertheless, he accepted the challenge and took over the franchise with the release of the film.

Thor: Ragnarok received widespread acclaim and was a huge box office success, earning $853 million worldwide. Waititi's direction brought a fresh and comedic tone to the Thor character, revitalizing the franchise.

Following the success of Thor: Ragnarok, Waititi was tapped to direct a sequel titled Thor: Love and Thunder, set to be released in 2022. However, he recently stated that he will not be involved in any potential future Thor films, choosing to focus on other projects he has signed on for.