posted by Outsiders in movies at 01:37 AM on 2007.08.03
Lionsgate is set to overhaul "The Punisher" franchise with a new star and a new director.
According to zap2it, Ray Stevenson will take over the starring mantle previously held by Thomas Jane and Dolph Lundgren. This "Punisher" will begin production in October under the watchful eye of director Lexi Alexander ("Green Street Hooligans").
The Marvel property's main character, Frank Castle, is a military-trained vigilante seeking revenge for the murder of his family and, like the 2004 movie, the update will aim for an R rating. It's unclear if the new film will stay in continuity with the 2004 film or if it will be a full reboot.
That 2004 feature, also a Lionsgate release, made less than $35 million domestically, but based on its low budget and solid DVD sales, Marvel execs have long maintained it was a solid performer, particularly if you compare it to the 1989 Lundgren vehicle.
Now I did a little checking because I really liked the "Punisher" movie with Thomas Jane and the reasoning behind Ray Stevenson taking over the role is because Thomas Jane decided to quit and pulled out of the second "Punisher" because he didn't like the new script and Marvel wouldn't make any changes. I am basing this reason on the exclusive from Ain't It Cool News: Thomas Jane dropping out of PUNISHER 2?!?
This website is provided for the general public as an information and entertainment resource. If you feel this site has infringed on your legal rights, please contact us.
