Ridley Scott reveals why he has refused to direct superhero movies

With a filmography as varied as it is prolific, director Ridley Scott has tried his hand at a variety of genres. His films range from the dystopian science fiction of Blade Runner (1982) to the historical epic of Gladiator (2000) to the road drama of Thelma and Louise (1991). However, Scott has also turned down a significant number of projects. Among them, several superhero films.

In fact, While the filmmaker was promoting Napoleon, his most recent project with Joaquin Phoenix, he explained why this type of proposal is one he prefers to pass up. "They offered it to me, but I said no thanks," Ridley Scott told Deadline. "It's not for me. I've done two or three superhero movies. I think Sigourney Weaver is a superhero in Alien. I think Russell Crowe is a superhero in Gladiator. And Harrison Ford is the super antihero in Blade Runner. The difference is that the fucking stories are better," the director finished off.

After the end of the promotion of Napoleon, Scott will resume shooting the sequel to Gladiator. This film will be the next step for the 85-year-old filmmaker who will feature Oscar nominee Paul Mescal in the role of Lucius, Maximus' successor. The production is scheduled for release in a year's time, on November 22, 2024.

Napoleon, meanwhile, is now available in theaters. The film tells the story of the life of the conqueror and how he was a class in the French Revolution. In addition to Joaquin Phoenix, the film stars Oscar nominee Vanessa Kirby. The film, which has been strongly praised by critics, is likely to win many trophies this awards season.