With its Marvel Enterprises property "The Punisher" ready to hit theaters in the spring, Lions Gate Entertainment said Thursday that it has further pacted with Marvel for a "Punisher II" sequel and also is developing two more Marvel films, based on the characters of Iron Fist and Black Widow.
The first film in the planned "Punisher" franchise stars Thomas Jane, John Travolta and Rebecca Romijn-Stamos. The sequel is in the development stage.
"Iron Fist" has been a Marvel title for more than 30 years. The series combines superheroes with martial arts and centers on Danny Rand, who was raised by monks and taught the ancient technique of the Iron Fist, which grants its users the power to level a building with a single blow and gives them complete control over their mind, body and spirit. Returning to America as an adult, Rand uses his amazing abilities to help those in need while seeking to avenge the murder of his parents.
"Black Widow" centers on the adventures of Natasha Romanov, who was trained by the KGB to be the Soviet Union's premiere spy. When the Berlin Wall comes down, she must try to find her place in a world amid international intrigue and suspense.
"We like to create alliances with companies that have powerful brands, and Marvel has one of the most popular, exciting and recognized brands in the world," Lions Gate CEO Jon Feltheimer said of the deals. "We believe that the nationwide launch of 'The Punisher' and access to two more cutting-edge Marvel characters will kickoff a long-term relationship between Lions Gate and Marvel that is rich with opportunity across all of our core businesses."
"Punisher" was originally developed by Artisan Entertainment, which had a deal in place with Marvel to develop films based on a selection of characters. Artisan subsequently merged with Lions Gate late last year.
"Working with Lions Gate on 'The Punisher' was a great experience and we feel very comfortable expanding this relationship to include two more exciting franchises," Marvel Studios chairman and CEO Avi Arad said. "We are already starting on 'The Punisher II,' which will become the fifth Marvel property to become a sequel." (Item courtesy of THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)
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