With X-MEN: FIRST CLASS now released, 20th Century Fox has to focus on future films in the ever-expanding and profitable X-Men franchise. Lets take a look at what new films are set to go into production and which are being developed for potential release.
THE WOLVERINE: Production is expected to begin in October, according to star and producer Hugh Jackman. The film, which follows Wolverine on his adventures in Japan, will film in the USA and Japan. While an official release date has not been announced, word is the film may be fast-tracked to 2012. Last we heard, '3:10 to Yuma' director James Mangold was in negotiations to direct the film, after original director Darren Aronofsky left the project. The film is described as a stand-alone film, that may not directly reference 2009′s X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE.
DEADPOOL: Ryan Reynolds really wants to see this film, which follows the comical and violent 'merc with a mouth,' get made. He's actively been conversing with 'Zombieland' screenwriters Zack Stenz and Ashley Miller and had a major say in director Tim Miller joining the film. Miller created an insane presentation that impressed Reynolds and producer Shuler Donner. "I love Tim." says Reynolds. "Tim is someone who we all vetted through and through. He's a guy who captures the spirit of it, and he's also an incredible visual artist."
X-MEN: FIRST CLASS 2: Director Matthew Vaughn and producer Bryan Singer have had plans for the sequel which would follow Charles Xavier forming the X-Men and Magneto moving forward with his Brotherhood and another potential real-life historical event. The critically praised X-MEN: FIRST CLASS has just made back its discounted 'after tax breaks' budget in domestic box office, and continues to do well overseas.
X-MEN 4/5: A follow up to X-MEN: THE LAST STAND may be in the cards. 'X-Men' Producer Lauren Shuler Donner said in March that they "took [a] treatment to Fox and they love it." adding that "X4 leads into X5." Director and X-MEN: FIRST CLASS producer Bryan Singer has been rumored to have connections with the project, which will continue the X-Men story in an exciting way. It's unknown if Fox will move forward with X4, but it would be a surefire profit maker, if done right.
NEW MUTANTS: Producer Lauren Shuler Donner has long had interest in a big screen film following young mutants in training. Recent reports suggested the film had not yet been presented to Fox, though it may be a potential project she follows up on.
DAZZLER: The film, which would follow mutant pop star musician Alison Blaire, has long been in minor talks at the studio. As of now the film has registered DazzlerTheMovie.com but no active developments have been made as of yet. Its been discussed, but has not been gaining steam.
EMMA FROST: At one point the film was being discussed for a potential Emma Frost solo project with director David O. Russell. Talks ceased shortly after, though Emma Frost has been finding success in X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE and X-MEN: FIRST CLASS.