After plunging into the depths of mega sharks, the allure of kaiju and colossal primates becomes an undeniable draw. This sentiment rings true for Ben Wheatley, the mastermind behind Meg 2: The Trench, who harbors a fervent desire to immerse himself in the awe-inspiring realms of Godzilla and King Kong. These legendary titans, known as the apex predators of cinema, have left an indelible mark on Wheatley’s creative vision.

In a recent exchange with Screen Rant, Meg 2’s visionary director, Wheatley, unveiled the intricate tapestry of influences interwoven into his sequel. Reflecting on his cinematic journey, he confessed, “I draw abundant inspiration from [Jaws], as well as the captivating allure of the 1970s Godzilla universe, including Shin Godzilla, and the contemporary wave of iconic Godzilla films. It encompasses a vast spectrum of cinematic riches…” When prompted directly about his aspirations to helm a Godzilla or King Kong installment, Wheatley’s response resonated with clarity, “Absolutely, without a doubt. These franchises epitomize cinematic greatness. Each entry captivates and delights me. There’s a lingering creative yearning within me for colossal creatures. If the opportunity arises, I will undoubtedly revisit this terrain.”

Yet, the realization of Wheatley’s aspirations may hinge, to some extent, on the box office performance of Meg 2: The Trench. Its opening haul of $30 million, a significant bite in its own right, fell slightly short of its predecessor. The inaugural film had faced scrutiny for its resemblances to Jaws, and indications from early reviews suggest that Meg 2 may encounter similar assessments.

While both Godzilla and King Kong have been momentarily absent from the cinematic spotlight since the monumental clash depicted in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), they are poised to make a triumphant return in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, helmed by the adept Adam Wingard. As for Ben Wheatley, the prospect of gleaning inspiration from the ceaseless allure of the 24-hour Godzilla channel on Pluto could spark further creative ingenuity.

The pivotal question arises: Can directing a venture like Meg 2: The Trench serve as a stepping stone for Wheatley to embark on further explorations into the grandeur of gargantuan monsters? Would he befittingly helm a chapter within the revered Godzilla or King Kong sagas? Share your insights and opinions below, as we unravel the future possibilities awaiting this visionary filmmaker.