Thanks to the amazing feats of several game changing directors in the superhero genre — Christopher Nolan, Marc Webb, Matthew Vaughn, Bryan Singer and Joss Whedon — the level of expectation for future superhero films has been raised. With Oscar buzz surrounding several performances in Nolans’ The Dark Knight Rises, one must ask: Have we finally reached the days of appreciating superhero films for what they’re truly worth? If that’s the case, well it’s about damn time.
Unfortunately, 20th Century Fox still has hold to several of Marvel’s titles — X-men, Daredevil, Fantastic Four. With the recent success of this year’s superhero films, you can bet the studio has no plans to simply hand them over. For Fox, the X-men have been their only successful Marvel title; X-men: First Class 2 begins filming in January, and The Wolverine hits theaters next year. A Deadpool spinoff is supposedly in the works. So what does this mean for Daredevil and Fantastic Four? Reboot.
‘Daredevil’ Reboot Loses David Slade
The deal between Marvel and Fox states, if Fox fails to put the three titles into production within a certain number of years (I believe it’s 4-6 years), then the rights go back to Marvel. And for Daredevil, time’s running out, as The Twilight Saga: Eclipse director, David Slade leaves the director’s chair empty. Slade was confirmed to direct the film back in March of 2011, and had even cast Xavier Samuel, Riley in The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, to don the classic red costume. Slade’s reason for departing? His involvement with the pilot for the Silence of the Lambs series adaptation “Hannibal” has got him tied down. Slade’s departure creates a problem for Fox. The studio will need to find a director quickly as there’s only couple months before the rights are handed back to Marvel. But I don’t think anyone’s going to be too disappointed about that.
‘Fantastic Four’ Aims for a Fantastic Reboot
Time to talk Fantastic Four! Deadline reported last night that Chronicle director, Josh Tank, has been ”officially set to direct the reboot of Fantastic Four”. It’s not really news, more of a confirmation, as his involvement was long rumored. With an all new cast and director, film is considered a complete reboot. It’s not a sequel and it will not combine the old films with the new. Due to its nature, Fantastic Four will be a tough reboot to sell. The general public weren’t dedicated to the characters, and Marvel fans had their complaints with both films. Also, will the franchise take on a darker and grittier feel? Expect more news to come on both fronts in the upcoming months.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Also let us know what you guys are thinking. Do you want Daredevil back in the hands of Marvel? Which actors should play the Fantastic Four? And what about the villain? Any thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.
