Fast X, a.k.a. the Fast & Furious franchise’s upcoming 10th installment, is back on track. Less than a week after director Justin Lin departed the 10th Fast film just days into production, Universal has reportedly found his replacement. Louis Leterrier, whose credits include The Incredible Hulk, Clash of the Titans, and Now You See Me, is poised to take Lin’s place, multiple outlets reported on Monday.
While Leterrier is said to be Universal’s top choice for the job, his deal has yet to be finalized. Securing a new filmmaker was undoubtedly a priority, as this delay is costing the studio anywhere from $600,000 to $1 million a day, sources from other studios with experience swapping directors told Variety. Filming in London with the main cast, which includes Vin Diesel, Charlize Theron, Jason Momoa, and new addition Brie Larson, has been halted until further notice.
The reason for Lin’s abrupt exit has been subject to speculation. Deadline initially reported that he left due to “creative differences.” Now a New York Daily News report claims that the director clashed with the franchise’s star. “Diesel shows up late to the set,” a source with direct knowledge of the situation told the outlet. “He doesn’t know his lines. And he shows up out of shape.” (Vanity Fair has reached out to reps for Lin and Diesel for comment.)
Lin, who has helmed five Fast films and was set to direct Fast 11, will retain cowriting and producing credits on the project. In a statement at the time of his departure, Lin said, “With the support of Universal, I have made the difficult decision to step back as director of Fast X, while remaining with the project as a producer. Over 10 years and five films, we have been able to shoot the best actors, the best stunts, and the best damn car chases. On a personal note, as the child of Asian immigrants, I am proud of helping to build the most diverse franchise in movie history. I will forever be grateful to the amazing cast, crew, and studio for their support, and for welcoming me into the Fast family.”
The 10th Fast & Furious film is scheduled for release on May 19, 2023.
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