There were plenty of rumors and conversation regarding the casting of Mad Max 4, which is now confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter to be titled Fury Road, and they have all proven true as the trade announces Bronson star Tom Hardy will step into the role of Max Rockatansky, a hardened ex-cop in a future beset by gas shortages and marauding gangs.. The role made iconic by Mel Gibson in the 1979 original, followed by The Road Warrior in 1981 and 1985’s Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.
This new film is said to the take place a short while after the story detailed in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome in which Max becomes a pawn in a decadent oasis of technological society, and when exiled, becomes the deliverer of a colony of children. Charlize Theron has signed on to play the female lead.
A shoot next summer in Australia is being eyed. The movie will be an Australian production which Warner Bros. will distribute with writer/director George Miller back in the helmer’s chair.
The role of Thor is being played by Chris Hemsworth in a story where the god of thunder, a powerful but arrogant warrior, recklessly re-ignite an ancient war. As punishment, Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans. Once here, he learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends dark forces of Asgard to invade Earth. Tom Hiddleston, Natalie Portman, Colm Feore, Jaimie Alexander and Stellan Skarsgard round out the cast.
Thor is set for a 2010 shoot and a May 20, 2011 release.
Finally, The Hollywood Reporter brings word Sony is moving forward on Men in Black 3, the third pic in its sci-comedy franchise with Tropic Thunder co-writer Etan Cohen penning the script and Barry Sonnenfeld back to direct once again. However, it appears Will Smith has not committed to the pic although THR seems to have heard he is interested. It is also noted Tommy Lee Jones’ involvement is uncertain. The studio is eyeing a 2010 start date and could go as soon as the spring.
