Acclaimed director Ryan Coogler, known for his work on films like “Black Panther” and “Creed,” has clarified his decision to decline an invitation to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences nearly ten years ago. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Coogler emphasized that his rejection was not rooted in any sense of resentment or bitterness regarding past nominations or snubs.
“It’s not out of animosity,” Coogler explained. He cited his extensive commitments to directorial projects, film unions, and his work with a film school as reasons for feeling stretched thin. The director also admitted that the pressure of judging films, even in a low-stakes environment, is something he finds challenging. “The act of ‘Hey, pick the best thing’ is very stressful for me,” he remarked.
Coogler, who largely avoids social media and public appearances outside of his professional work, expressed that the allure of awards season carries less fascination for him compared to the daily intricacies of filmmaking. “People see the tuxedo, they see the red carpet, but it’s real blue-collar folks making these movies happen,” he stated. His hands-on approach to filmmaking often results in him wearing practical clothing like coveralls as he focuses on crafting stories.
In 2016, the year following the release of “Creed,” the Academy invited Coogler to join. Notably, despite the film’s success, only Sylvester Stallone received an Oscar nomination, while Coogler and his cast members were overlooked for major awards. Perhaps fueled by the Academy’s past disregard for Coogler’s breakthrough film, “Fruitvale Station,” his decision was interpreted by some as a protest.
Despite being overlooked in the Best Director category for his subsequent Marvel films, including “Black Panther”—which made history as the first superhero film nominated for Best Picture—Coogler is back in the spotlight with his latest project, “Sinners,” marking his fifth collaboration with actor Michael B. Jordan. The thriller is already generating buzz as a potential contender for Best Picture and could secure Coogler his first Oscar nomination.
Looking forward, Coogler remains focused on what lies ahead. Alongside a third installment in his superhero franchise slated for release in 2028, he revealed his excitement about new ventures with his production company, Proximity Media. Among these is the much-anticipated revival of “The X-Files.”
“The image I get is a green meadow with Bay Area fog on it, and it’s dawn,” Coogler visualized regarding his future plans, suggesting a sense of open opportunity and potential. As he continues to innovate in the film industry, Coogler embodies a hopeful spirit focused not on accolades, but on the art of storytelling itself.