James Gunn Finally Confirms That Vin Diesel Is Voicing Groot In GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY

James Gunn (via Instagram) has confirmed that Vin Diesel will indeed be the voice of Groot in Guardians of The Galaxy. There had been speculation that Diesel could actually be up for the role of Thanos, but that seems to be debunked. The image looks to be Diesel recording his voiceover work at Marvel, we also get a solid look at the character's design as Vin poses with a Groot bust/statue.

Guardians of The Galaxy will also see Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket Raccoon, the rest of the cast includes Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Batista, Lee Pace, Karen Gillian, Benicio del Toro , Glenn Close and John C. Reilly. The film is set for a August 1st, 2014 release date. A teaser trailer is expected to air during the Super Bowl and a full trailer attached to Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

SOURCE: JamesGunn

How Baron Strucker Might Fit Into The MCU And What This Could Mean For CAPTAIN AMERICA 3

LatinoReview revealed yesterday that Baron von Strucker will play a key role in Avengers: Age of Ultron, and even named some candidates for the role. It had been also reported the part would be more of way to open the film, and introduce Scarlet Witch/Quicksilver to audiences. Strucker could have a larger role in future films, including Captain America 3. He's one of Cap's more notorious villains and with more solo sequels post-Winter Soldier, we have to assume Strucker could be apart of future movies. Strucker's origins for the film haven't been confirmed, but has slowed aging allowing to fight Cap in both WWII and present day settings. Below is a bit of the character's history via MarvelWikia.

Baron Wolfgang von Strucker, a former Nazi officer, was one of the leaders of Hydra and an enemy of S.H.I.E.L.D., the Avengers, and the interests of the United States of America and of the free world in general. He was physically augmented to be nearly ageless and was seemingly killed in the past to return to plague the world with schemes of world domination and genocide time and time again.

Baron von Strucker came from a line of Prussian noblemen who were all military leaders, and was recruited by the Nazi Party in the 1930s. Von Strucker rose through the ranks and became wing commander of the Death's-Head Squadron. Von Strucker fought Nick Fury, Captain America, the Invaders and several other wartime heroes, losing every time. Adolf Hitler was angered by von Strucker's many losses and ordered the baron's death. Finding an ally in the Red Skull, von Strucker was sent to eastern Asia to build a power base; this eventually led to the creation of the international terrorist organization Hydra.

There might have been hints to Baron Strucker's inclusion to the MCU back in Iron Man 3. Aldrich Killian mentions being apart of Advanced Idea Mechanics, a terrorist organization that is a splinter group of HYDRA and founded by Strucker. It's possible that the Baron was going to be the buyer of the Killian's extremis-tech, or was in fact the one paying for the whole experiment. There has been speculation that A.I.M. could come into play in Edgar Wright's Ant-Man.

Toby Jones will return as Dr. Zola in The Winter Soldier, although it hasn't been confirmed if he'll be in his robotic form which was hinted to in First Avenger. Perhaps, the character has links to Strucker in the film and could end up the puppet-master of both Zola and Bucky. There were teases to Zola brainwashing Bucky in the first movie, which might lead to him becoming Winter Soldier. We already learned that he'll be the boss of villainous twins Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Quicksilver (Aaron Johnson), being behind Winter Soldier too wouldn't be a stretch. It might even be a great cliffhanger, as the film is expected to be the lead-in for Age of Ultron.

Frank Grillo plays S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Brock Rumlow in Winter Soldier, but will eventually become the villain Crossbones. He'll work with and be at-odds with Rogers in the film, leading him to take out the super soldier. It's unknown if this turn to Crossbones happens in the upcoming sequel, or is explored further down the line. Grillo has hinted about this transformation, but nothing is set in stone at the moment. I wouldn't be shocked to see him return apart of Strucker's team in Age of Ultron or future Cap installments.

WHAT I'D LIKE TO SEE IN CAPTAIN AMERICA 3

The likelihood of including Strucker is probably to resurrect HYDRA as a foil for S.H.I.E.L.D and Captain America. HYDRA has been one of the biggest launching grounds for villains and world domination plots. If we're going to have more Cap films, brining them back as a serious world threat ( something currently lacking in the MCU) would be a great way to continue Rogers' journey into present day. We don't really have a human threat compelling enough at the moment, it's been mostly cosmic and artificial origins (Thanos, Loki and Ultron). The Baron could be a way to give S.H.I.E.L.D an actual reason to exist, and give Rogers something worth battling between Avengers installments.

Let's face it, the villains of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D aren't worth Cap's time. Having HYDRA combine forces with A.I.M. and Roxxon could be a way to give the MCU real human adversaries.  Not to mention including advanced military technology like drones, robotic-enhancements and other weapons could put S.H.I.E.L.D on their asses. Think of how overwhelmed they would be if the enemy was using tech similar to Elysium or Avatar.

Strucker's right-hand is Ophelia Sarkissian, better known as Madame Hydra. She's also known as Viper, and that angle of the character was used in The Wolverine, turning her into a mutant scientist. Fox didn't refer to her as Ophelia but only Ms. Green along with a blond look over, leading me to believe that the Madame Hydra-side of the character is still game for Marvel to use, as she was clearly more connected to Captain America than Wolverine in the comics.

Marvel Studios has been upping their game concerning supporting female characters with Widow, Pepper, Sif and Jane getting more action and screen time. They haven't given us a main female villain in these films yet. There were some minor female villains in Iron Man 3, which is a step in the right direction but it would be nice to the ladies also given the heavier roles. A character like Whitney Frost would have been perfect for Iron Man 3, and for all we knew Maya Hensen (played by Rebecca Hall) could have easily became that villain but turned out to be just another minor character. Frost could show up in Age of Ultron but is unlikely set for Iron Man 4 (RDJ has signed on for Avengers 2-3, but not another Iron Man sequel), other sequels might be set for Phase Three. Nothing at this point is ruling out Thor 3 (Hela, Amora The Enchantress) or Captain America 3 (Madame Hydra, Sin), two projects that very well might see female villains.

The character hasn't been brought up recently but she was in early drafts of The First Avenger, along with Strucker and Baron Zemo.  I assume Sarkissian could show up in Age of Ultron, if not then Captain America 3, as you rarely see Strucker without her. The Avengers cartoon had Strucker as a primary villain on several occasions, which also included Madame as his second in command.

I'd love to see Eva Green (300: Rise of An Empire, Casino Royale, Sin City: A Dame To Kill For) or Ruth Wilson (Saving Mr. Banks, Lone Ranger, Luther) end up with the villainous role, as the two actresses are very capable of playing convincing villains. It doesn't hurt Green worked with possible Strucker candidate Marton Csokas in Kingdom of Heaven. Wilson had been my choice for Scarlet Witch but with Olsen now in the role, having Ruth still involved with the MCU is a must. Her role as Alice in Luther alongside Thor's Idris Elba, proves she's also able to play a strong villain, being apart of two Disney projects and linked as a candidate for Ms. Marvel could help her land in the MCU too.

It had been rumored that Baron Zemo would have an appearance in Winter Soldier, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Gods of Egypt, Game of Thrones, Oblivion, Headhunters) was linked as a possible candidate for the role. It's a possibility that Marvel was looking to cast Strucker and not Zemo at the time, as Nikolaj does fit the character description for Strucker (that was mentioned by LatinoReview). Zemo is still a great Marvel character since he has linage (like Union Jack) and has played both villain along with ally in recent incarnations. He could very well become the Loki character for the Captain America franchise if handled properly.

I've had a few actors on a wish-list to play Zemo, but after seeing Daniel Brühl take on powerful roles in films such as Inglourious Basterds and Rush (co-starring with Thor's Chris Hemsworth), I can totally support him for the role. Not to mention he's able to speak German, French and Italian, a talent that could be explored in a globetrotting adventure franchise like Captain America. Daniel could see his performance in Rush earn him an Oscar nomination, a key part of getting on Marvel's radar.

If Marvel is looking for more of a bruiser to play Zemo, my choice would be South African actor Sharlto Copley. The actor has taken on a steady stream of action roles in District 9 and The A-Team (alongside Rocket Raccoon's Bradley Cooper), not to mention playing a villains in Elysium and Oldboy. Copley is currently shooting Chappie which co-stars X-Men actor Hugh Jackman. Kruger has to be one of the best villains of 2013, seeing Sharlto take on more roles like him would be awesome.

Marvel has been hiring some rough and tumble actors for supporting roles in Winter Soldier, mainly Frank Grillo (The Grey, Warrior, Homefront, End of Watch) and Callan Mulvey (300: Rise of An Empire, Hunter) as S.H.I.E.L.D agents. It would be nice to see Union Jack finally come into play, as the character was hinted to back in Iron Man 2. I would assume that Joey Chapman would be the incarnation of the hero, since that was the UK racer mentioned in the Iron Man sequel. Giving Cap his own team like The Invaders could be a way to introduce another iconic heroes like Union Jack.

I've been dying to see Sullivan Stapleton (Animal Kingdom, 300: Rise of An Empire, Strike Back) take on a Marvel role, and Union Jack could be a perfect one for him. The Aussie badass was linked for roles in Guardians of The Galaxy and Star Wars: Episode VII, both Marvel and Disney see potential in the actor.

Baron Von Strucker Another Antagonist In AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON?

LatinoReview have been known for scooping superhero villains, they first revealed that Loki would be the main baddie in Avengers. Not to mention revealing a steady stream of other bad guys, including General Zod (Man of Steel) and Khan (Star Trek Into Darkness). They have yet another villain reveal, this one concerning Avengers: Age of Ultron.

Ultron (James Spader), Quicksilver (Aaron Johnson) and Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) aren't the only villains of the sequel. LR states that Marvel is aiming to add Baron Von Strucker to the mix, stating the villain will be the boss of Quicksilver and Scarlet. This leaves more questions than it answers. Does this mean the return of H.Y.D.R.A,  Red Skull or setup Strucker for Captain America 3?

Stucker is a Captain America villain, but has also become a villain of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the Avengers. He resurrects H.Y.D.R.A., is the founding member of A.I.M. (introduced in Iron Man 3 by Killian) and has been involved with The Masters of Evil. It was rumored that Masters of Evil would play a role in the sequel, until Ultron was announced at Comic-Con. He was introduced during the WWII era of Captain America, and was originally included in early drafts of The First Avenger script. The villain also appears in the video game tie-in Captain America: Super Soldier, which was set in WWII and also included Madame Hydra (Viper, a version of her showed up in The Wolverine). At one point there was a rumor that Marvel was looking to cast Baron Zermo in Winter Soldier, that still remains to be seen.



LR is saying that Marvel is currently looking for actors to take the role, they even have names linked for Strucker, which include New Zealand actor Marton Csokas (Lord of The Rings, Kingdom of Heaven, Amazing Spider-Man 2, Noah, Sin City 2) and Scottish actor Dougray Scott (Hitman, Strike Back, MI2). These actors aren't locks but just names the site is hearing. Scott was originally set to play Wolverine in the first X-Men film, but would have to exit because of a delayed shoot on Mission: Impossible 2, leading to the casting of Hugh Jackman.

UPDATE: HitFix reports a few more details concerning the role, stating he'll be the first villain we see being thwarted by the Avengers in the opening scenes. Making the connection Strucker's appearance would be similar to a Bond opening-sequence, seeing 007 taking out a villain before the credits/theme song. This will also be our introduction to Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, as the twins work for him.

SOURCE: LatinoReview

Sony Announces Directors For VENOM And SINISTER SIX Spin-Off Films

Sony announced today that they will indeed be moving forward with two Amazing Spider-Man spin-off movies, Venom which has been in development for years and one focusing the villain supergroup The Sinister Six. They went on to confirm new writers and directors for both projects, this comes off the recent reports that Sony was hinting to creating their own expanded Marvel Cinematic Universe with the Spider-Man characters.

Director Marc Webb and producer Avi Arad will head up the brain trust of the franchise which will see Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, Jeff Pinkner (Fringe, Alias, Lost), Ed Solomon (Men In Black, Super Mario Bros, Charlie's Angels, Bill And Ted, Now You See Me) and Drew Goddard (Cabin In The Woods, Daredevil)  pen the scripts for the films, Kurtzman and Orci currently are involved with Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014), Amazing Spider-Man 3 (2016) and Amazing Spider-Man 4 (2017). Nothing says this trust will stop at two spin-off films as there are plenty of characters that could get their own movies such as Black Cat, Morbius The Living Vampire (if they own the rights to him) and future set Spider-Man 2099 (think Star Trek Into Darkness or Minority Report with superheroes).

Alex Kurtzman is actually attached to direct Venom, which is a bit of a shocker since he's only made one film People Like Us, that didn't do so well with critics or box office as it wasn't able to even make back it's tiny $16 million dollar budget (even though Star Trek's Chris Pine and Elizabeth Banks starred). Josh Trank (Chronicle) had originally been attached to direct but his commitments to Fox's Fantastic Four reboot might have led to his replacement. It also sounds like the studio is tossing the script from Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese (Deadpool, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, Zombieland). Alex has been better known as an accomplished writer helping pen scripts for Hercules, Xena, Alias, The Island, The Legend of Zorro, MI3, Transformers, Star Trek, Cowboys And Aliens, Fringe and Edge of Tomorrow. It will be interesting to see which host they'll turn to for the movie, Eddie Brock has been established with the viral campaign but the more heroic Flash Thompson is the current incarnation of the villain turned hero.

While Drew Goddard will direct The Sinister Six, this not being his first venture into the Marvel world. He's currently working on Marvel Studios' Daredevil Netflix pilot that he'll write and direct, Drew will also act as the series Showrunner. Besides being a writer at Lost, Drew co-wrote Cabin In The Woods with Joss Whedon which he also directed. Not unlike Alex, he has a longstanding record as a writer also helping pen scripts for Buffy, Angel, Lost, Alias, Cloverfield (and it's untitled) sequel along with last-minute rewrites to World War Z.

The final lineup hasn't been revealed but it looks like Harry/Green Goblin will be it's leader, as it's been teased he's behind creating the villains (such as Electro and Rhino). Other additions could include The Vulture, Doc Ock and possibly a cat-burglar with a bit of sweet-spot for Spider-Man. There had been previous hints that Black Cat could be involved with the group, if she does make the cut in this spin-off it might set her up as Spidey's side-kick/love interest in future films. It's possible that other members such as Kraven The Hunter or Mysterio won't be hinted to or cameo in the film.



No release or production start dates have been announced but it's possible we could see one of two spin-offs eye an 2015 release date. As 2015 won't have a Spider-Man title released in that year.

Emilia Clarke And Brie Larson Still Front-Runners For Sarah Connor In TERMINATOR 5

Deadline is reporting that actresses Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) and Brie Larson (Scott Pilgrim, 21 Jump Street) have tested for Terminator 5. They were previously linked with actresses Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) and Margot Robbie (The Wolf of Wall Street), in the mix for the role of Sarah Connor. This update sounds like the pair are close to landing the lead role. While Tatiana and Margot aren't mentioned (lack of information on them?). Alan Taylor (Game of Thrones, Thor: The Dark World) is attached to direct with a release date of June 1st,  2015.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is expected to return for the film in an unnamed role (possibly human). According to other sources Tom Hardy (Inception, Mad Max: Fury Road, Dark Knight Rises), Garrett Hedlund (Tron Legacy, On The Road), and Boyd Holbrook (The Host) are being looked at for John Connor. Also, Taylor Kitsch (Savages, John Carter) and Nicholas Hoult (X-Men: First Class, X-Men: Days of Future Past) have tested for the role of Kyle Reese.

SOURCE: Deadline 

Gal Gadot Confirmed For WONDER WOMAN In BATMAN VS SUPERMAN And Callan Mulvey Wanted For Villain

Variety has confirmed that Fast And Furious actress Gal Gadot has landed the female lead in Batman Vs Superman. Her character in the film will indeed be Wonder Woman. Director and co-writer Zack Snyder even commented on her addition to the cast. Gadot was up against actresses Jaimie Alexander, Elodie Yung and Olga Kurylenko. The film is aiming for a July 17th, 2015 release date. It will be interesting to see if this leads to Gal getting her own solo film eventually.

“Wonder Woman is arguably one of the most powerful female characters of all time and a fan favorite in the DC Universe. Not only is Gal an amazing actress, but she also has that magical quality that makes her perfect for the role. We look forward to audiences discovering Gal in the first feature film incarnation of this beloved character.”

Warner Bros. is also looking at Aussie actor Callan Mulvey for the villain role. They don't name the villain but Lex Luthor has been mentioned a few times. Callan's credits include 300: Rise of An Empire, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Zero Dark Thirty and The Hunter.

SOURCE: Variety 

FIRST LOOK: James Franco As Skylark In THE INTERVIEW

Seth Rogen has tweeted the first image of James Franco in character for The Interview. In the film a TV personality played by Franco along with his producer (played by Seth) go to North Korea to interview their leader. Apparently, the pair are mixed up in an assassination plot and comedy ensues.

Cap Delivers A Serious Beat-Down In First Official Stills From CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER

Kevin Feige Reaffirms Plans For BLACK PANTHER Film And Comments On LOKI Spin-Off

Marvel's Black Panther was in the running for Phase Two but sadly didn't make the cut. Kevin Feige finally gives an update on the film's current status. Feige has been dishing a lot concerning his excitement for the rest the Phase Two lineup during press interviews for Thor: The Dark World. He's even teased at great length what's in store for Phase Three. However, one project Kevin has been quite mum about. That being the current status of Black Panther. He gave a brief statement to BlackTreeTV about the possibility of a Loki spin-off and if Black Panther is still happening.

"Ah, a lot of people are asking about Loki's own movie. That's pretty good and you know my favorite thing about being asked a question about Loki. Is that it means, it's worked. People respond to Loki they respond to Hiddleston. You know one might say he gives Thor a run for his money in this film. Wether he'll spin-off in his own story or not, I don't know we don't have immediate plans for that. I think there are a lot more stories to tell in the Thor universe first."

"And in terms of The Black Panther, it's absolutely in development. When you have something as rich as Wakanda and his backstory. Certainly vibranium has been introduced in the universe already. I don't know when that'll be exactly but certainly we have plans to bring him to life someday."

His statement seems a bit safe and still a bit coy. Feige isn't gushing about Panther here, like he has previously with Ant-Man and Doc Strange (a solid contender for Phase Three). Yet, Kevin does give the impression he's still being considered for release. We know that a script by Mark Bailey exists. Along with a steady group of seasoned/young actors being linked or rumored for the role of T'Challa. Wakanda made a small cameo in Iron Man 2 and since then Black Panther has gathered a large amount of fan support. The fictional Marvel country could very well make an appearance The Avengers: Age of Ultron, as the film is said to have location shots in South Africa. I speculate that Ultron could upgrade his body by heading to Wakanda for some vibranium. The same indestructible metal that Cap's shield is made from. LatinoReview has been confident in that Panther will make Phase Three. 

Chris Hemsworth Confirms More Marvel Sequels, Kevin Feige Talks THOR 3, PHASE THREE, DAREDEVIL And X-MEN Crossover

AccessHollywood was able to speak with Thor: The Dark World's Chris Hemsworth. The actor confirms his contract includes returning for Thor 3 and Avengers 3. Marvel hasn't announcement plans at the moment to include a third Thor film. So, it's possible if Thor: The Dark World reaches similar numbers to Iron Man 3 (unlikely but could break $800m) the studio will likely fast track a sequel for Phase Three. We already know big numbers don't equal sequels as Iron Man 4 doesn't seem to be the aim currently. Even with Shane Black game for more installments and the last film earning $1.3 billion at the worldwide box office. However, it led to Robert Downey Jr. signing up for Avengers: Age of Ultron and a yet untitled Avengers 3.

"I’ve got three left in my contract – from here on, I have two more Avengers and one more Thor and if people wanted to see more, I’d be happy to keep going. I love these stories and I love this character. The opportunity has opened up everything for me."

We've heard Loki actor Tom Hiddleston previously mention that he'd love to see Amora The Enchantress in a future film. Along with Hemsworth warming up to the idea of casting his Snow White And The Huntsman co-star Charlize Theron in that villainous role. Besides chatter from the actors nothing is officially slated for release. However, Kevin Feige briefly spoke to SlashFilm about the chances of seeing Loki before Thor 3, giving the impression they have at least an idea of what Thor 3 might look like. Also, stating we could be seeing two films in the Phase Two lineup focusing on existing MCU characters. A model which is seeming being put into practice starting in April 2014 with the Captain America sequel and leading to August's release of new franchise Guardians of The Galaxy.

"Yeah, I don’t think it would be before Thor 3 if there is a Thor 3 and while we certainly have ideas of where we would like that to go, there are no specifics. We have to see how this one does and then go from there."

"I think it’s important, in an ideal world, that we have an additional story on a pre-existing character and then introduce a new character. So next year is The Winter Solider, Guardians…Year after that, Age of Ultron, Ant-Man. That’s a nice rhythm. It might not always be like that. I mean [this year was] Iron Man 3 and The Dark World, so it won’t always be like that necessarily, but that’s certainly something to aim for. So we have additional stories of the existing characters in development and the new ones, all of which you’ve heard before."

While speaking on an Empire video chat (via CBM), Kevin Feige also dished on development plans for Daredevil and commented on an X-Men crossover. After previously talking about working X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner and getting his Marvel feet wet with the original X-Men film.

"Daredevil is back at Marvel, and there are lots of talented people figuring out what to do with him next. We love Daredevil, there are amazing stories -- the Bendis run over 5 or 6 years, running into a Brubaker run was amazing. All sorts of things before that era we could use -- so I think you can bet on seeing SOMETHING from Daredevil in the not to distant future." 

"In terms of an X-Men crossover, there are certainly no plans now -- I never say never to things like that, but I don't think it'll be anytime soon", Feige says, before joking that it'll be "Phase 27" before we see that happen."

New Poster For CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER, First Trailer Coming Thursday

Marvel's Kevin Feige Talks DAREDEVIL, PUNISHER, ANT-MAN, AGE OF ULTRON, DOCTOR STRANGE And Hints At PHASE THREE Announcement At SDCC14

Marvel's Kevin Feige is the face of Marvel Studios. So, when he drops hints and talks about future films we should take notice. He recently made the press rounds during the London premiere of Thor: The Dark World. Kevin gives his thoughts on the recent Ant-Man casting rumors (via HuffingtonPost) and the fate of Daredevil and The Punisher (via BleedingCool). What James Spader's performance as Ultron will entail for Avengers: Age of Ultron (via HuffingtonPost). When we can expect Doctor Strange (via Movies), a female heroine getting a film and the rest of the Phase Three lineup to be announced.

"Well, sometimes it's because we are legitimately talking, and sometimes it's just because he's a prominent actor out there now. And lots of rumors surround prominent actors..."Well, nothing is true yet. I like Paul Rudd, too." 

“We’re trying to figure out what to do with Daredevil now. Punisher could show up at one point. You know, once we get characters back into the Marvel fold we don’t want to do something right away, we want to do the smart thing at the smart time.”

"Well, I think it will be more than a voice role -- we'll be capturing his face and his body to create a whole performance. He's a very unique and incredibly exciting and unpredictable actor. And Ultron in the comics is a robot, but what's cool about him in the comics -- and certainly how Joss Whedon is interpreting him for the movie -- is that he is much more than just a robot. That he's infused with much character. And I don't want to say too much, but you can imagine James Spader will be very dynamic in his portrayal of this character....[Laughs] We did not hire James Spader to do a robot voice."

“Doc Strange, as I’ve been saying for years, is a movie I believe we should make — we’re just figuring out how to make it a great movie. It is in active development right now,” Feige told us. “Whether that’s one of the movies we announce for 2016 or 2017, we have to see. I think it’ll be the middle of next year before we announce officially what the post Ant-Man films will be."

"I know we have numerous exciting female heroes, whether none of them are currently slated, some of them are in development -- frankly, you can look at what Jane Foster does in [Thor: The Dark World], look at Pepper Potts literally saving the day and defeating the bad guy in Iron Man 3, and I'd say we already have great female heroes that are showcased and play major roles in our universe now. Captain America: The Winter Soldier, as you will see, features Black Widow in her biggest role yet in any of our films. In terms of a solo standalone female hero, I'm not sure when that will be. We make two movies a year, we've planned through 2015 and we have some ideas of what we're doing in 2016 and 2017, so we'll see what happens."

At the moment Marvel hasn't made any official announcements concerning the rest of the Phase Three releases besides Ant-Man in July 2015. However, there are a few new characters they've been trying to put together for their own films such as Doctor Strange, Inhumans, Black Panther, Heroes For Hire (or solo films for Luke Cage/Iron First), Ms. Marvel, Black Widow and possibly a new Hulk installment.

Strange and Black Panther have scripts in place which led to lots of casting rumors concerning both projects. Names like Viggo Mortenson, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Javier Bardem, Benedict Cumberbatch and Joel Edgerton have been linked over the last couple of years/months. I personally like the idea of having Tom Hanks (recently is campaigning for any superhero role) take the role which is expected to become the Tony Stark of Phase Three. Since Marvel has a tendency to consider Disney alumni and Oscar caliber actors, Hanks seems like a solid candidate. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to give some age to the character. Panther on the other hand has had a overwhelming amount of actors interested in the role. Two of them have been apart the MCU,  The Dark World's Idris Elba and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Not to mention Guardians of The Galaxy's Djimon Hounsou who is among many favorites for the role. Along with others being linked or fan favorites such as Chadwick Boseman (42), Nate Parker (Non-Stop, Red Tails), Chitwetel Ejiofor (Children of Men, Serenity, 12 Years A Slave, American Gangster), David Oyelowo (The Butler, Planet of The Apes, Reacher), Aldis Hodge (Leverage) and Morris Chestnut (Kick-Ass 2, Nurse Jackie). It seems likely that both films are strong contenders for Phase Three.

The trades previously reported that Ms. Marvel has a script in development over at Marvel. Along with rumblings that Emily Blunt (Looper, Escape From Tomorrow) and Ruth Wilson (Luther, Lone Ranger) were in the running for the role. Even Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica, Riddick) tossed her hat in the ring for the part a few weeks back. We've heard Joss Whedon talk disliking the Carol Danvers incarnation of the character. So it's possible the studio could be going another route with her instead. Marvel recently bought Spawn's Angela and added her to books Age of Ultron and Guardians of The Galaxy. This combined with a new Ms. Marvel comic book on the way led BleedingCool to speculate that Angela could be the new Ms. Marvel. Allowing the character to exist without connections to The Kree and having defined/limited powers. While still having cosmic connections to The Guardians and even possibly Ultron. It's quite possible that Marvel could even move forward with Nicole Perlman's (Guardians of The Galaxy) script for the Black Widow film. Since Johansson's character will be getting a lot more screen time thanks to Winter Soldier and Age of Ultron.

Inhumans has been gathering steam for sometime and at one point was competing with Guardians of The Galaxy as the second last release in Phase Two, before Avengers: Age of Ultron. There is talk the film is going to be the MCU's version of the X-Men with Inhumans possibly replacing mutants. There is also talk of taking influence from Game of Thrones having warring factions within the world of Ihumans. Some speculation that Vin Diesel's real Marvel role could be that of Black Bolt and taking Groot in Guardians was just to get his foot in the door. Besides a script there isn't else much in place with the film but there is chatter it's further along in development than most suspect.

The Hulk was obviously the breakout character in The Avengers and around it's release there was talk that a new film could be on it's way. Joss Whedon and Mark Ruffalo talked about putting it together, with Joss considering writing it. Since then there had been rumblings that stories such as Planet Hulk (Hulk is banished to a warring planet which is populated with aliens as strong as he is) and Indestructible Hulk (Hulk is apart of S.H.I.E.L.D and is s hero rather than a fugitive) could be source material for a new string of movies. There's even a new cartoon Hulk And The Agents of S.M.A.S.H. which could be easily help influence a film. Instead of having Banner on the run making him the primary hero.

RUMOR: Rashida Jones Wanted For ANT-MAN?

I'm putting this out there before I even mention this rumor. The source doesn't even have a standing track record, as I've never heard of them. However, they're not CosmicBookNews, so there is a bit of curiosity on my part. SuperheroMovieNews say that Marvel and Edgar Wright are looking at comedic actress Rashida Jones to play Janet in Ant-Man. She would be the first actress linked since the casting process has actually started.

There are more than just a few reasons to think she's a possibility. Jones has previously worked with Ant-Man candidate Paul Rudd on I Love You Man and Our Idiot Brother. Rashida also has roles in The Office and Parks And Rec. In Parks she works with Guardians of The Galaxy's Chris Pratt. She also has links to Edgar Wright working with two of the Cornetto Trilogy actors Nick Frost and Olivia Colman (Hot Fuzz) in the dance comedy Cuban Fury. Oddly enough, Chris O'Dowd who is also in Cuban Fury has a small cameo in Thor: The Dark World.

Guillermo Del Toro Says PACIFIC RIM 2 Is Being Written But Legendary Hasn't Given The Green Light

IGN (via HitFix) caught up with writer/director Guillermo del Toro on the status of the possible sequel to Pacific Rim. The film made around $100 million domestically but worldwide made over $400 million. Giving Legendary enough profits to consider making another installment. Along with expectations to make a decent chunk of change in BR/DVD/VOD sales. Writers Travis Beacham and del Toro have been spending the last couple of months putting together a script for Pacific Rim 2. Guillermo reaffirms the script is being written but the studio hasn't green lit the sequel at this point.

Michael B. Jordan Confirmed As The New Human Torch In FANTASTIC FOUR?

SchomesKnow are claiming to have exclusive confirmation that Chronicle and Fruitvale Station star Michael B. Jordan has signed on to play Johnny Storm/The Human Torch in Josh Trank's Fantastic Four reboot. Jordan had been originally been linked for the project by TheWrap's Jeff Snider and the actor would go on to deny involvement. He had also been linked to testing for role in Star Wars: Episode VII. Michael is the first actor confirmed for the project and sounds like Fox is looking towards a more diverse cast than the previous films. While actors such as Kit Harington and Saoirse Ronan have been recently linked for other leads. The studio is still waiting for final script rewrites from Simon Kinberg.

Gentle Giant's Black Widow Statue From CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER Gives Us The First Look At The New Costume

Junkie XL Will Score MAD MAX FURY ROAD

ThePlaylist has caught wind that Tom Holkenborg better known as Junkie XL has been hired to score George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road. The film has been delayed for years and will finally get released in 2014. It stars Tom Hardy as the new Max, along with Charlize Theron and Patrick Stewart taking key roles. Tom isn't new to the film scoring scene collaborating with Hanz Zimmer on the scores for Man of Steel, Inception and The Dark Knight Rises. He also recently composed the score for 300: Rise of An Empire. It's an interesting turn around seeing respected musicians take turns in their careers to score full length films, so I'll be interested to hear what he comes up with.

Craig Roberts Takes A Supporting Role In 22 JUMP STREET, Plus Set Photos

THR reports that Welsh actor Craig Roberts has joined the growing cast of 22 Jump Street which is currently in production. Roberts is best known for his leading role in the coming-of-age film Submarine. He recently joined the alumni by working with Seth Rogen on Neighbors, which could mean we'll see more of Roberts in the Rogen/Hill films. Craig will be playing a supporting character named Spencer.

Trailer For Wes Anderson's THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL Looks Stellar

Joseph Gordon-Levitt And Paul Rudd Named Front-Runners For ANT-MAN

Variety reports that the two front-runners currently for Edgar Wright's Ant-Man are Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Don Jon, Looper, Dark Knight Rises, Inception) and Paul Rudd. Joseph has been on Marvel's radar for quite sometime being linked for both Star-Lord (Guardians of The Galaxy) and Doctor Strange. Rudd's comedic resume is worth noting but hasn't really made any action flicks, so his name being attached is a bit odd. However, I wouldn't have imagined Chris Pratt for Star-Lord before James Gunn placed him in that role. It's possible the two could be going up for the same role of Hank Pym but Wright has mentioned using both Pym and Scott Lang in the film. Two characters that shared the title Ant-Man in the comics. I wouldn't rule out both actors taking lead roles.

First Poster For Wes Anderson's THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL

Ty Simpkins Takes Lead In JURASSIC WORLD, Jake Johnson In The Mix For Role

Deadline reports that Iron Man 3 breakout star Ty Simpkins (Insidious 1-2, Little Children, War of The Worlds) has landed the lead in Colin Trevorrow's Jurassic World. While Bryce Dallas Howard (50/50) was confirmed a couple of weeks back. The site also mentions that New Girl's Jake Johnson could take a role in the film. Johnson previously worked with Colin on Safety Not Guaranteed, so it might end up a reunion. Other names previously linked for roles include Josh Brolin, David Oyelowo and Garrett Hedlund.

WHAT IF: MINORITY REPORT Was Originally Going To Be A Direct Sequel To Paul Verhoeven's TOTAL RECALL

BadassDigest has an interesting article chronicling the original plans for David Cronenberg to direct Total Recall. His contributions to the project would bleed over to Paul Verhoeven's final version. David was the one responsible for creating the concept of the mutants on Mars and that they would have precognition abilities. However, another interesting tidbit is that everyone involved with the original Total Recall were planning on making a sequel. The mutant precog idea was picked up by screenwriters Ronald D. Shusett (co-writer of Alien) and Gary Goldman as they optioned Philip K. Dick's other short story Minority Report. The pair were aiming to use it for Total Recall 2 as they were prepping the script for the sequel. Total Recall 2 would have seen Douglas (Arnold Schwarzenegger) now the head of a company in the business of using mutants (likely from Mars) to predict crime. Taking the precog concept from Minority Report and expanding it to a whole group of characters introduced in Total Recall which would have been a stroke of genius to bridge the two stories.

Arnold and director Paul Verhoeven were attached for the sequel with it about to go into production. Until Carolco Pictures folded and the film was taken to 20th Century Fox. Paul's cinematographer Jan De Bont and Fox worked together to get the project away from him. The studio then severed any links to Total Recall with rewrites. The cinematographer would eventually get fired from the project himself after flops like The Haunting and Speed 2. It was given to Steven Spielberg instead who rolled with the idea it needed to be it's own thing. Crazy to think that Minority Report could have been another fun R-rated Arnold Schwarzenegger action-fest. Instead of the glib Tom Cruise led PG-13 CGI eye candy which Spielberg gave us.

New FANTASTIC FOUR Casting Shortlist Includes Kit Harington, Saoirse Ronan And Others

Variety reports that 20th Century Fox is zeroing-in on it's young cast for The Fantastic Four reboot. It looks like Alison Williams (Girls) is now out of the running for Sue Storm. As actresses Saoirse Ronan, Kate Mara (House of Cards, Transendence, Iron Man 3) and Margot Robbie (Wolf of Wall Street) are now in the mix. They also include that actors Kit Harington (Seventh Son, Game of Thrones), Miles Teller and Jack O'Connell (300: Rise of An Empire) are now being looked at for Reed Richards. Michael B. Jordon (Chronicle) is still be mentioned as front-runner for the role of The Human Torch. There is talk that studio has yet to see a completed script and because of this haven't greenlit the project.  Even though a release date of March 16th, 2015 has been set. Producer and newly added screenwriter Simon Kinberg (X-Men: Days of Future Past) has been brought on to rewrite the existing script. Josh Trank is still set to direct with X-Men First Class' Matthew Vaughn attached to produce/shepherd the reboot.

Hammer Films To Make THE DAYLIGHT GATE Which is Inspired By The Pendle Witch Trial

THR reports that the iconic horror studio is going to make a witch trail film based on the fictional novel The Daylight Gate. The book was inspired by the Pendle Witch Triail, which was the most notorious witch trials in England. That took place during 1612 which could make for an interesting period piece horror film.

Hammer recently gathered new life after the success of The Woman In Black which ended up grossing $130 million, becoming the most profitable English horror film ever made. They're currently on post-production on The Quiet Ones which is a paranormal tale. Another one in development is titled Gaslight which sees an imprisoned Jack The Ripper helping Scotland Yard solve a string of grizzly murders that could be committed by a vampire.

Four Actresses Viving For Role In BATMAN VS SUPERMAN, Will The Studio Consider Ladies Previously Looked At For DC Films?

LatinoReview is hot on the trail of new casting scoop concerning Batman Vs Superman. This new role being a female lead. One which the site originally claimed was a love interest for Bruce Wayne. However, other outlets like BleedingCool say the role is Wonder Woman. While LR states that Wonder Woman is out of the picture with this film. Which could end up being more in the realm of Vicki Vale and other love interests. A new bit of information is sprouting which sees four actresses currently in the running. Usually it's down to two front-runners for roles like these. No names are currently being mentioned but I have some possible ideas of who could be in the mix.

Amy Adams originally read with Christian Bale for Rachel Dawes when Nolan was casting Batman Begins. Adams didn't land that part but would eventually take the Lois Lane role in Man of Steal. It's possible we could see women linked with Dark Knight Rises and Man of Steel casting in a similar position. Getting a second look for this lead role in Batman Vs Superman.

GEMMA ARTERTON: Gemma recently co-starred with Ben Affleck in Runner Runner along with being a candidate to play Selina Kyle/Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises. She's proven with roles in films such as Byzantium and Alice Creed that's Gemma is more than capable to handle action role and could even make a solid villain. Arterton had also been among a shortlist of actresses considered for Elizabeth Shaw in Prometheus.

MARY ELIZABETH WINSTEAD: Having tested for the role of Lois Lane, MEW has been pursuing a role like this for a while. She had been linked for the Maria Hill role in Avengers and Agent Sharon Carter in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. There has also been rumblings that because of her connections with director Edgar Wright working on Scott Pilgrim, she might also be a strong contender for The Wasp in Ant-Man.

JESSICA BIEL: Biel has been linked for the roles of both Selina Kyle and Lois Lane, along with The Wolverine's Viper. All roles that would eventually go to different actresses. She's taken on physical roles in films such as Blade Trinity and Total Recall. While those films were flops her action scenes were on the money.

ROSAMUND PIKE: Rosamund Pike had been in the running for villainous roles such as Faora in Man of Steel and Emma Frost in X-Men First Class. She's also taken action roles in films such as Die Another Day, Jack Reacher, Wrath of The Titans and The World's End. Not to mention recently co-starring with Ben Affleck in David Fincher's Gone Girl.

DIANE KRUGER: The German actress is best known for her roles in Troy and Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds. However, Diane had been in the running for Carol Ferris in Green Lantern and was considered for the role of Faora in Man of Steel. Her husband Joshua Jackson was actually in the running for Bruce Wayne at one point before Bale landed it. While Joshua's Dawson's Creek co-star Katie Holmes ended up playing Rachel Dawes.

CHARLOTTE RILEY: Like Biel, Charlotte has been one of the few actresses that has tested for both Selina Kyle and Lois Lane. She's kept under the radar with smaller roles and could be an actress like Antje Traue who stole a few scenes in Man of Steel.