As part of its overall slate of self-produced films based on Marvel superheroes, Marvel Studios has tapped director/actor/writer Jon Favreau (ELF) to direct the big screen adaptation of IRON MAN. In addition to helming, the ZATHURA director will develop the script with the writing team of Arthur Marcum and Matt Holloway (CONVOY).
In addition, X2 writer Zak Penn will write a new INCREDIBLE HULK film. Under Marvel's arrangement with Universal, Marvel will develop and produce the INCREDIBLE HULK as a major theatrical release, with Universal retaining various distribution rights.
Writer/director Edgar Wright (SHAUN OF THE DEAD) is set direct, and co-write with writing partner Joe Cornish, a feature film based on cult-favorite ANT MAN. Edgar will also co-produce with his Big Talk Prods. partner Nira Park.
David Self (THIRTEEN DAYS, ROAD TO PERDITION) has been tapped to write CAPTAIN AMERICA. He also worked with Marvel on two other projects NAMOR, THE SUB-MARINER for Universal, and DEATHLOK for Paramount.
The iconic super spy Nick Fury, will be brought to life by action/adventure screenwriter Andrew Marlowe (AIR FORCE ONE, END OF DAYS, HOLLOW MAN). It was previously announced that John Singleton would direct the film.
Thor will hammer his way to the big screen with the help of screenwriter Mark Protosevich. Protosevich (POSEIDON, THE CELL).
"We are incredibly excited to be able to attract some of Hollywood's top talent to help Marvel launch the first wave of our independently-produced film slate. These screenwriters and directors are at the top of their game, and each brings a unique passion for the individual characters and projects they will be working on. Our goal is to combine great characters with exciting action, and we've assembled a team who will do just that," said Avi Arad, chairman of Marvel Studios. "In fact, some of these writers have already helped us create major Hollywood blockbuster franchises like FANTASTIC FOUR and X-MEN. With our independent slate, we look forward to delivering to movie-goers the same type of high-action, gripping entertainment they have grown accustomed to with the Marvel brand."
With screenwriters and directors on board, Marvel is commencing discussions with other talent and visual effects houses as it gears up for full-scale production on the new slate, with the first release anticipated in 2008. These projects are expected to be financed with Marvel's $525 million revolving film financing facility and distributed under Marvel's overall distribution arrangement with Paramount, except for THE INCREDIBLE HULK which will be distributed by Universal.
President/coo Michael Helfant will oversee the company's growth to accommodate this newly expanded production activity. The projects will be shepherded and produced by Kevin Feige, president of production, and Ari Arad, evp of production.
With a library of more than 5,000 characters, Marvel Ent. Inc. (www.marvel.com) is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, videogames, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of more than 60 years of comicbook publishing,
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
