The buzz surrounding Marvel's latest live action films
Iron Man 2, Thor and
First Avenger:Captain America has been steadily increasing; but the studio is still actively developing another fan favorite comic property,
The Runaways. Deadline.com is reporting that Marvel Studios is currently negotiating for
Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist director Peter Sollett to helm the film which will be distributed under Marvel's pre-Disney deal with Paramount Pictures.
The Playlist is stating that Joss Whendon, who has recently been linked to Marvel Studio's
The Avengers live-action film, is also in negotiations to direct the comic adaptation.
Runaways has been described as
The Breakfast Club of the comics world. The story follows a group of teenagers who discover that their parents, an amalgam of mob bosses, time-travelers, dark wizards, mad scientists, alien invaders and telepathic mutants, are part of an evil crime syndicate. The series is known for it's solid characterization and its ability to tackle dark elements (occult sacrifices and gangland violence) while maintaining a comedic tone. The stories take places in mainstream Marvel continuity (one of the youngster's parents is a Skrull) and several major Marvel characters have made appearances alongside the teens.
The film's script was written by Brian K. Vaughan, the creator of the comic series. Though no casting information has been released or rumored, the film has a tentative 2011 release date.
MPP - I'm a fan of Whedon's but when I heard he was being considered as a possible Avengers director I got a bit worried.
Runaways, on the other hand, is RIGHT up his alley. He already has loads of experience handling an ensemble cast of young actors in action/teen angst roles. I have no doubt he would make a bad ass film.