As has been widely reported this week, James Gunn has been removed by Disney from the production of the upcoming final film of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.

Whilst the American filmmaker received critical acclaim for his work in directing the first two Guardians films – we praised Vol. 2‘s ‘warm and tender awesomeness’ – decade-old tweets have proved to be his downfall.

With Disney now searching for a replacement for Guardians Vol.3, here are five directors who we think could, potentially, make the best threequel in the Galaxy.

1. Edgar Wright

To deal with the elephant in the room, Wright does have beef with Marvel that makes this one unlikely. The Hot Fuzz director’s Ant-Man experience was a mess but if there’s any strain of the MCU in which Kevin Feige and company have given filmmakers freer reign it is Guardians of the Galaxy. With music being as important to this eighties-infused franchise as dialogue, we can think of few directors better placed to continue the vibe than Wright. This is, after all, the man who gave the world Baby Driver.

2. Steven Spielberg

Sticking with the need for eighties awareness, who better than Steven Spielberg to capture the Guardians love for the decade? Spielberg’s enthusiasm for escapism is matched by his love of a parental bond and both are the keystones of Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill. With Ready Player One under his belt this year, we know Spielberg can handle bonkers, fan-pleasing, out-of-space fun too.

3. Karen Gillan

Gillan may not yet be known for her directing – the Scot’s feature debut was The Party’s Just Beginning earlier this year – but she certainly knows her way around the Guardians sets from playing Nebula. The uncertain future of that character after Infinity War may mean that Gillan has more time on her hands to direct. Furthermore, her zany character and happy go lucky attitude make her a good fit for the directing seat of Vol. 3.

4. David Leitch

Even if Guardians of the Galaxy doesn’t break the fourth wall, its knowing humour sure comes close. A director who knows something about hitting that tone is David Leitch. The Deadpool 2 director has a strong eye for action – see also Atomic Blonde – and good ear for a soundtrack. Could be dynamite if he weren’t preoccupied with the upcoming Fast and Furious spin-off: Hobbs & Shaw.

5. Taika Waititi

Waititi would have been an insanely left field choice until he reinvigorated Thor last year. Now, the New Zealander seems the perfect pick. Thor: Ragnarok matched the Guardians films in tone, humour and dazzling space visuals. Given the directing seat for Vol. 3, Waititi may even bring back Korg, who must be floating around the Galaxy somewhere, given his Infinity War absence.

Who would you pick? Vote in our poll and comment your suggestions below!