According to THR, Marvel began searching for a director six months ago, and has met with over 70 directors. The search was narrowed to three in June, with Shortland (Lore, Berlin Syndrome), Amma Asante (Belle, A United Kingdom) and Maggie Betts (Novitiate). Star Scarlett Johansson is a fan of Shortland’s work and encouraged her selection.

The current script for Black Widow was written by Jac Schaeffer (see “'Star Wars' 'Solo' Synopsis, 'Ant-Man and Wasp' Pic, 'Black Widow' Writer, 'Mazinger Z: Infinity' Trailer, Release Info”).

The film has not be scheduled, but Marvel has plenty of dates reserved for “unnamed” projects through 2022 (see “Best in Shows Index”).