An interesting article from The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that 20th Century Fox isn't slowing down production on their 'X-Men' and other Marvel projects. On the contrary, "we actually have way more in development and production in Marvel IP than at any point in the history of the studio", revealed a spokesperson. "We are going 100 miles per hour", added another.
However, that hasn't stopped various executives, filmmakers or negotiators from wondering about the futures of their projects. The impending purchase of Fox by Disney means that nothing is completely certain. One of the issues revolves around the future of adult-rated franchises like 'Deadpool'. Will such productions be welcome at a family friendly company like Disney?
Disney CEO Bob Iger seems to think so. Marvel boss, Kevin Feige, has spoken out several times about the future of violent and foul-mouthed content.
Despite ongoing talks over the merger, it's likely that we won't see much of it for some years to come, and Fox appear to be counting on that. Another source has confirmed that "they have to proceed as business as usual in case the merger doesn't go through". Overall, Fox will premiere two Marvel films this year ('Deadpool 2' in May and 'X-Men: Dark Phoenix' in October) and has plans for three more in 2019 and another three for the year after that.
Here's a list of the planned productions according to THR, some are without names or expected release dates and others are still awaiting official confirmation.
Fox's planned 'X-Men' projects
A project written by Brian Michael Bendis for 'Deadpool' director Tim Miller.
A film about Silver Surfer, written by Brian K. Vaughn (comic author, and script writer for 'Lost' and 'Under the Dome').
'Gambit' has, once again, found itself without a director, but Channing Tatum is still confirmed to play the superhero. A new script is planned for March.
'The New Mutants' is set to continue filming this summer with a new addition. The film has been pushed back for release in February 2019.
Drew Goddard is thought to be working on a 'Deadpool' spin-off called 'X-Force'. Filming should begin this October and will include Ryan Reynolds and Josh Brolin.
A film about Fantastic Four villain, Doctor Doom is in the works. Noah Hawley ('Fargo', 'Legion') is working on the project, which supposedly marks only the beginning of the upcoming 'X-Men' films.
Will we get to see any of these productions when Disney makes its purchase official? When will the deal actually go down?, we wonder. For now, the UCM is going at full speed, towards 'Avengers 4' which Feige promises will significantly change the saga as we know it. All of the current actors' contracts end in 2019.
