20th Century Fox’sX-Men spin-off Gambithas had a rocky journey en route to the silver screen, with multiple delays, although the movie is still actually happening. ProducerLauren Shuler Donnermade it clear that the project is still moving forward in an interview last month. But the standalone drama is still without a director, afterDoug Limanparted ways. And it isn’t clear when this long-awaited movie may finally get off the ground. Today, we have an update from another producer,Simon Kinberg, who claims that filming will likely begin next year.
LRM Onlinespoke with producerSimon Kinberg, who reiteratedLauren Shuler Donner’s previous comments that the project is still happening. He also revealed that starChanning Tatumis still committed to the role, and is trying to get the character just right. Here’s what he had to say below, confirming that filming onGambitwill likely begin next year.
“Yeah, it is going to happen, and it’s just a question…Channingis, in the best possible way, as committed and as rigorous about getting the character right asRyanwas withDeadpooland asHughwas withLoganon this movie, and so it’s been about finding a filmmaker and someone who can capture that voice and hand it off toChanning. But he’s been a really critical part of the process, and we’re hoping that the movie, probably given his schedule, will be ready to go this year and probably shoot next year.”
Before directorDoug Limanwalked away from the project in August, there was a report that claimed the movie was struggling to find the right tone. Very little is known about the story, especially since the script seemingly continues to keep evolving, but we reported in September thatX-MenalumAnna Paquinwill not return to reprise her role as Rogue, even though Rogue and Gambit had an interesting relationship in the comic books. While no story details have been confirmed yet, the project has previously been described as a “sexy heist thriller,” withReid Carolin,Channing Tatum’s producing partner, taking over the writing duties fromJoshua Zetumer(RoboCop).
Way back in 2015, whenRupert Wyattwas still attached to directGambit, a report surfaced thatLea Seydouxwas being eyed for the female lead role of Belladonna Boudreaux.Gambitwas first seen on the big screen in 2009’sX-Men Origins: Wolverine, played byTaylor Kitsch. This New Orleans-based Mutant has the power to manipulate kinetic energy, and often uses playing cards against his victims, throwing them and turning them into tiny bombs mid-air. He is also known for fighting with his Bo staff. Hopefully we’ll find out the year progresses, but it may be quite some time before any updates are announced.
