Fox have fast tracked the production for a June 3rd 2011 release date. Here is the official press release from Fox..
BRYAN SINGER AND MATTHEW VAUGHN UNITE FOR X-MEN: FIRST CLASS
Twentieth Century Fox will release film on June 3, 2011
LOS ANGELES (May 4, 2010) __ “Kick-Ass” director Matthew Vaughn will helm X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, a new chapter in Twentieth Century Fox’s blockbuster series of films based on the Marvel Comics.
X-MEN: FIRST CLASS begins production this summer for a June 3, 2011 release. Bryan Singer, who conceived the story for FIRST CLASS and directed the original “X-Men” and its sequel “X2,” is producing along with Lauren Shuler Donner and Simon Kinberg.
“I’ve been a fan of Matthew’s since LAYER CAKE,” said Singer. “He has a deft hand with multiple characters and storylines, and a great love of the X-Men universe. I feel the combination of this story and his vision will make for an exciting and original X-Men film.”
Added Twentieth Century Fox president of production, Emma Watts: “X-Men: First Class presents an exciting opportunity to further explore the history and relationships of these beloved characters. Matthew’s combination of talent, verve and vision is perfectly suited to the task.”
There is also a rough plot synopsis..although it really doesn't reveal anything we haven't already heard or guessed..
X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, following the classic Marvel mythology, charts the epic beginning of the X-Men saga. Before Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young men discovering their powers for the first time. Before they were archenemies, they were closest of friends, working together, with other Mutants (some familiar, some new), to stop the greatest threat the world has ever known.
I have to say, after the apparent rumor was quashed about Vaughn helming and more surfaced name checking Louis Letterier among others I really didn't think he would be taking the gig. My excitement for this movie has officially moved up a notch..making it..one notch! Ah no, who knows what a director like Vaughan will bring to this. Lets hope its more toned down
Kick-Ass than Mutant High 90210 anyway.
Many thanks to Alex over at Firstshowing for bringing it to my attention.