'Shang Chi's Dave Callaham to pen next 'Godzilla x Kong'
Dave Callaham, the acclaimed screenwriter behind Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, has been tapped to write the next chapter in Legendary's Godzilla/Kong monster movie series. This decision follows the box office success of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, which raked in nearly $555M worldwide. The film's earnings mark a high point for the series, second only to 2017's Kong: Skull Island which grossed $568M. It is still running in theaters.
Why does this story matter?
Although renowned for his work with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Callaham has a history within the Monsterverse. He was initially enlisted as the primary writer for 2014's Godzilla. However, while retaining a "Story By" credit, his original script underwent significant revisions by various writers, including David S. Goyer, Frank Darabont, Tony Gilroy, and Max Borenstein. Borenstein ultimately received the "Written By" credit and continued his involvement in subsequent Monsterverse films.
Callaham's previous involvement with Godzilla and other works
Callaham is no newcomer to the Godzilla franchise, having penned early drafts for 2014's Godzilla, which kickstarted Legendary's monster movie series. The company's five films have collectively grossed $2.5B globally. Besides his work on Shang-Chi, Callaham has contributed to films like the 2021 Mortal Kombat reboot, and Wonder Woman 1984, and co-wrote Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, which won a best animated feature Oscar.
Future of 'Godzilla x Kong' series and director's plans
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire was helmed by director Adam Wingard, who crafted the story alongside Simon Barrett and Terry Rossio. Despite Legendary expressing interest in Wingard returning for future installments, no official agreement is currently in place. Further, some complications are looking up as Wingard is reportedly concentrating on an original film titled Onslaught for A24 before committing to other projects.
