'Fast and Furious 8' might be delayed due to difficulties in finding a director
After James Wan, the "Fast and Furious 7" director, decided not to continue with the series, it seems like the producers are struggling to find a director for the next movie of the franchise.
Wan was reported to pass on the project since he needs to focus on another movie that was offered to him, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The report said that Wan had contractual options to direct "Fast and Furious 8 and 9," but the director told Universal before the seventh film was finished that he plans to direct "The Conjuring's" sequel.
The studio accepted the director's decision, but Universal allegedly went back to Wan, whom was reported to have been offered "life-altering money," just to direct at least one more film.
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Universal also approached another "Fast and Furious director," Justin Lin, who directed the third to sixth films. According to reports, Lin declined to direct and apparently chose to make the next "Star Trek" film, instead of directing the eighth installment of the franchise.
Jaume Collet-Serra, the director of "Non-Stop," was also asked by the movie outfit, but declined since he "was not available." The only one who confirmed behind the project is Chris Morgan, who will be the screenwriter.
According to News Everyday, the movie franchise is also rumored to be looking to add more women in the cast. A number of actresses are considered, and the list includes Cara Delevingne, Ruby Rose, Helen Mirren. Eva Mendes is also said to be coming back to the franchise, according to rumors. On the other hand, actress Jordana Brewster is said to be leaving the series.
"Fast and Furious 8" will still include returning cast members like Vin Diesel, Tyrese Gibson, Michelle Rodriguez, Dwayne Johnson, Ludacris, Jason Statham, and Kurt Russell.
The eighth "Fast and Furious" film will premiere in April of 2017.
