Ghost Rider cinematographer calls Ryan Gosling’s upcoming Marvel film ‘something really special’

Oscar- winning cinematographer Linus Sandgren says Marvel ’s new take on Ghost Rider isn’t just about flaming skulls and stunt bikes. Speaking at the Hamilton Behind the Camera Awards, he described the Ryan Gosling –led film as a more grounded, character-forward ride — and, according to industry chatter, one that’s eyeing real film stock and a start in New York in early 2027 .

“That’s a super exciting project. I think [there’s] an intention to do something really special, and grounded, and emotional,” Sandgren said, adding, “It could be very dramatic and fun.”

Sandgren, who won an Oscar for La La Land and shot First Man and No Time to Die, joins director Shawn Levy (Deadpool & Wolverine ) on the movie that will introduce Ryan Gosling as Johnny Blaze. Marvel announced the project at San Diego Comic-Con, with a planned release on July 28, 2028.

• Star — Ryan Gosling as Johnny Blaze
• Director — Shawn Levy
• Cinematography — Linus Sandgren (reportedly shooting on film)
• Filming — Expected to begin in New York in early 2027 (per reports)
• Release — July 28, 2028
• Announced — San Diego Comic-Con

Nicolas Cage passes the torch

The last big-screen Ghost Rider has weighed in. At the Nov. 4 premiere of Madden, Nicolas Cage told The Hollywood Reporter he’s all-in on Gosling taking over as the Spirit of Vengeance — and said the two stay in touch.

“Ryan’s going to do his thing with it and I’m looking forward to seeing it,” Cage said.

Cage introduced mainstream audiences to Johnny Blaze in Ghost Rider (2007) and returned for Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2012). There’s also a neat full-circle footnote: Eva Mendes — Gosling’s longtime partner — played Roxanne Simpson opposite Cage in the 2007 film.

Ghost Rider is slated to hit theaters on July 28, 2028, with production expected to kick off in New York early in 2027.