Two-time Academy Award® nominee Edward Norton has signed on to play Bruce Banner, who transforms into Marvel's renowned, larger-than-life Super Hero, The Hulk in Marvel Studios' action-packed, new big screen adaptation of THE INCREDIBLE HULK. The film, which is being directed by Louis Leterrier and distributed by Universal Pictures, is scheduled to smash into theaters on June 13, 2008.
"Edward Norton is a rare talent and one of the most versatile actors in the business. His ability to transform into a particular role makes him the ideal choice to take on the character of Bruce Banner/The Hulk. Edward is perfectly suited to bring one of the most popular and important Marvel icons to the big screen in a new and exciting way," said Kevin Feige, President of Production, Marvel Studios.
Under the visionary direction of Louis Leterrier (Transporter 2, Unleashed), The Incredible Hulk will return to the roots of the long-running comic series and television show.
The story unfolds when the pursuit for The Hulk – the world's most misunderstood, primal force of fury – heats up, finding Bruce Banner on the run attempting to cure his condition before his pursuers capture him.
Edward Norton is widely recognized as one of Hollywood's most multifaceted actors. Having appeared in more than 20 films to date, he has garnered numerous accolades, including two Academy Award nominations. He received a Best Actor nod for his portrayal of a former Neo-Nazi in American History X, as well as Supporting Actor recognition for his role opposite Richard Gere in Primal Fear. He will next been seen in Pride and Glory (co-starring Colin Farrell). Other film credits include: Fight Club, The Painted Veil, The Illusionist, The Score, 25th Hour, Frida, Death to Smoochy, and The People vs. Larry Flynt.
Filming is slated to begin in Toronto this summer.
The Incredible Hulk film is being produced by Avi Arad, Gale Anne Hurd and Kevin Feige and will be executive produced by Jim Van Wyck, David Maisel, Ari Arad and Stan Lee. Mr. Norton is represented by Brian Swardstrom of Endeavor.
Universal Pictures will distribute the film domestically and in various international territories.
About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.
With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world. For more information visit www.marvel.com.
Except for any historical information that they contain, the statements in this news release regarding Marvel's plans are forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including unexpected delays in the production of The Incredible Hulk film or that Marvel may be delayed in meeting its lender's conditions for funding The Incredible Hulk film under its film slate facility. These and other risks and uncertainties are described in Marvel's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Marvel's Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K.
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