Avengers 2 Development Announced

by Josh Starnes, CMRO Editor

Disney Announces Development of Avengers 2

Disney chairman Bob Iger officially announced that development of a sequel to “Marvel’s The Avengers” had officially commenced on Monday.

“The Avengers is an illustration of why we like Marvel so much,” Iger, who brokered the deal to acquire the company from investor Ike Perlmutter, said.

No details for the sequel were announced; however production will face several obstacles despite blockbuster’s success as many principals will be up for contract renewal ahead of production.

Robert Downey, Jr.’s four picture deal to portray Tony Stark will be complete following the release of Iron Man 3 next year. Both Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth have three picture deals to portray Captain America and Thor, respectively, which will conclude with the release of Captain America 2 in 2014 and Thor 2 in 2013. All three contracts will have to be renegotiated before Avengers 2 commences.

Mark Ruffalo, who signed a two picture deal to portray the Hulk, could still be easily used in an Avengers sequel following Marvel Entertainment President Kevin Feige’s comments that no new Hulk film was in the works. Samuel L. Jackson also still has five films left in his nine-picture deal to portray Nick Fury, though it is unknown if he will have appearances in Iron Man 3, Captain America 2 or Thor 2.

Hawkeye actor Jeremy Renner is also signed on for more appearances as the character. However with Renner moving into movie star territory by taking over the reins in the Bourne franchise with this summer’s “The Bourne Legacy”, scheduling could be difficult.

“Avengers” writer-director Joss Whedon also announced, prior to the film’s release, that he was unsure whether he wanted to return to the franchise despite his enjoyment of the first film.

One thing which is official, with Marvel’s schedule already announced through 2014 it will be three years at the earliest before another “Avengers” film graces the screen.

“The Avengers” has been the number one film at the box office in the US for three consecutive weeks and is already among the top 10 highest grossing films of all time worldwide, not adjusting for inflation. Merchandising sales have also been strong, Iger said.