Rumors of Vin Diesel possibly directing Fast and Furious 8 started to emerge when reports surfaced of the film experiencing production problems before lensing. The actor was quick to distance himself from the job saying he wasn’t interested in getting involved in studio politics. But he did confirm that he talked to Universal, and promised that there will be one final Fast and Furious trilogy. He added that he and producing partner Neal Moritz weren’t simply going to sign off on any director for a franchise as special as Fast and Furious, and that no one has seen a script.

Well, a lot has changed since that time. Now, a couple of reports have pegged Straight Outta Compton helmer F. Gary Gray, The Incredible Hulk‘s Louis Leterrier, and You’re Next‘s Adam Wingard as in line to direct Fast and Furious 8. More on the story below.

THR and The Wrap report that a source close to the studio’s search says F. Gary Gray is one of the frontrunner’s to direct the film, and appears to have the edge over all other candidates. Gray, who was behind this year’s sleeper hit Straight Outta Compton, also directed the action drama The Negotiator, the cult comedy Friday, and the action comedy The Italian Job. He also worked with Vin Diesel on A Man Apart. So he is a pretty well-rounded director having helmed genres across the board. But the thing that may clinch it is the fact that he has already worked with Diesel, and directed Straight Outta Compton for Universal.

The two Hollywood trades also say that Louis Leterrier is also in the running to direct the film. Leterrier is best known for helming The Incredible Hulk, a Marvel film which also was under the Universal banner. His other credits include The Transporter and Now You See Me.

Adam Wingard is also among the candidates for the job. He is best known for the sleeper horror flick You’re Next, and last year’s thriller The Guest. He can next be seen working on Death Note, which just signed Nat Wolff as the lead.

The three directors are expected to meet with Diesel, who is said to want to have input on who will helm the film, later this week.

While it seems very unlikely, THR says William Eubank, who co-wrote and directed The Signal, is also being considered. However, the site adds that because of the film’s April 14, 2017 release date, it might not be in their best interest to hire him.

It’s not clear if these meetings are going to have the director sign on for multiple films or just one. Justin Lin helmed six Fast and Furious titles before passing the torch over to James Wan, who directed Furious 7. Wan ultimately passed on the opportunity to direct Fast and Furious 8 to direct The Conjuring 2: The Enfield Poltergeist.

We’ll keep you up to date on who gets the job.

[Source: The Wrap | THR]