AceShowbiz -

Marvel is courting Ava DuVernay to direct one of its superhero movies, according to TheWrap. Multiple sources tell the site that the studio apparently wants the "Selma" director to direct either "Black Panther" or "Captain Marvel", both due out in 2018.

Insiders suggest that "Black Panther" is the most likely possibility as it's due first in July 6, 2018. According to the site, Marvel has had discussions with Ava. While considering other directors, there is mutual interest in having the director join MCU.

Insiders say Marvel wants to hire an African-American director for "Black Panther" and a female filmmaker for "Captain Marvel". Ava's hiring would make her Marvel's first African-American and first female director. Previously, Patty Jenkins was hired to direct "Thor: The Dark World" but she was eventually replaced by Alan Taylor.

Marvel's courtship report emerges as the American Civil Liberties Union calls for an investigation into Hollywood's "systemic failure" to hire female directors. Ariela Migdal, a senior attorney for ACLU Women's Rights Project, says the failure to hire female directors is "a pretty solid sign there's discrimination going on."

"Black Panther" is starring Chadwick Boseman as T'Challa, the prince of Wakanda who must take over his father's throne and avenge his death. "Captain Marvel", meanwhile, centers on Carol Danvers who receives powers after encountering an alien from the Kree Empire. Written by Nicole Perlman ("Guardians of the Galaxy") and Meg LeFauve ("Inside Out (2015)"), the Marvel first female-superhero movie is slated for a November 2, 2018 release.