It looks like Gambit finally has a director again, at least according to a report from Deadline, which confirms that Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity, Edge of Tomorrow) is in final discussions to take on the X-Men spin-off film, starring Channing Tatum.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes director Rupert Wyatt was originally chosen as director for the film, but bowed out in September, stating that the film's schedule conflicted with another of his projects, although some sources believe that there was more to the story than that and cited the standard "creative differences."
"I was very much looking forward to working with my friend Channing and the team at Fox, but regrettably a push in the start date now conflicts with another project," said Wyatt in a statement at the time, as reported by the Hollywood Reporter. "I thank them for the opportunity, and I know that Gambit will make a terrific film."
The film, starring Tatum in the title role, focuses on Gambit, one of the X-Men. In Marvel Comics, Gambit, aka Remy Etienne LeBeau, is a mutant from New Orleans with the ability to manipulate kinetic energy, although he's also skilled at throwing both cards and punches and fighting with his staff. His most powerful trick involves charging his cards with kinetic energy and then flinging them at his enemies, turning them into explosive deadly weapons.
Gambit previously received a mention in the X2: X-Men United movie as a name found on a computer. He also appeared onscreen in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, but was then portrayed by actor Taylor Kitsch. Now, Tatum plans on stepping into the role, and with a new director possibly on board, production could start soon on the project. A script by Josh Zetumer is already complete, and the film has Tatum, Reid Carolin, Lauren Shuler Donner and Simon Kinberg producing.
Entertainment Weekly also recently reported that Lea Seydoux (Spectre) will take on the female lead in the Gambit film, playing assassin leader Bella Donna Boudreaux. In Marvel Comics, Gambit eventually marries Bella Donna but leaves town after killing her brother in a duel.
Gambit currently has a theatrical release date of Oct. 7, 2016.
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