X-Men Origins: Wolverine release date

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20th Century Fox has moved in and staked its claim on May 1st 2009 for the release of Hugh Jackman-led actioneer "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."

The story explores the character's violent and romantic past, and his complex relationship with Victor Creed and the ominous Weapon X program, as well as his encounters with other mutants - some of which have appeared in the existing three "X-Men" films.

Liev Schreiber is reportedly in final talks to take on the role of a younger version of nemesis William Stryker, played by Brian Cox in "X2."

Hood will start shooting in Australia this November before moving to New Zealand and, later, to New Orleans. This last location hints that we might see the long-awaited appearance of the mutant Gambit.

Given the first three X-Men movies grossed an uncanny $1 billion worldwide, Fox has been looking for ways to expand the franchise.

Besides Wolverine, the studio is also developing a film centered on Magneto, the X-Men antagonist played by Ian McKellen. The origin story will tell how the young mutant comes to grips with his metallic-attracting powers during the Holocaust and his quest for vengeance against both his Nazi captors and antimutant factions.

David Goyer, who penned Blade: Trinity and Batman Begins, is slated to helm that project, which will likely feature Magneto and Professor X played by actors in their 20s. No word yet on a cast or a release date.

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