'Gambit' Movie Update: Film Gets Official Release Date, Teased as a Crime/Heist Film
It looks like the "Gambit" movie starring Channing Tatum is finally happening this time around with a release date finally set.
The X-Men spinoff film, which will focus on the story of the titular mutant with the ability to create and control kinetic energy, will hit the theaters on Valentine's Day in 2019.
It has been three years since Tatum signed on for the "Gambit" project. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" director Rupert Wyatt and "Bourne Identity" helmer Doug Liman were at some point attached to direct the project but both left.
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Wyatt was the first director tapped for the gig. The film was then set for Oct. 2016, but he said scheduling conflicts hampered him to effectively fulfill the role and quit Sept. 2015. There were reports that his exit was due to disagreements over budget and script though.
Liman was then the next director recruited, but the project suffered many delays in production and he ultimately quit August of last year.
Thankfully, word emerged a few days ago that "Pirates of the Caribbean" director Gore Verbinski is in talks to helm the project, which ultimately put the project back on track after hitting development hell.
Apart from his work in the Johnny Depp-headlined franchise, Verbinski is also known for projects like "The Lone Ranger," "Rango" and most recently the thriller "A Cure for Wellness."
The script for the "Gambit" movie will be written by Josh Zetumer. Tatum will produce the film, along with Reid Carolin, Simon Kinberg and Lauren Shuler Donner.
According to Omega Underground editor Christopher M, it will be a crime heist film that will honor the playing card-wielding character's long history as a thief. He tweeted:
So everyone doesn't freak out... GAMBIT is a crime/heist film, be prepared. I'm sure everyone will still freak out about it.
With much of the important details in place, the future is looking good for "Gambit," which is shaping up to be a comic book movie hit.
