Matthew Vaughn to helm flick about the mutants’ early days, due June 3, 2011. By Rick Marshall “X-Men: First Class” Photo: Marvel “Kick-Ass” director Matthew Vaughn will soon trade superhero wannabes for the real deal when he gets behind the camera for “X-Men: First Class.” The 20th Century Fox film about the early years of Marvel’s popular mutants received a director and release date this week, according to Variety. The report confirmed earlier rumors regarding Vaughn’s attachment to the project and set the release date for the film as June 3, 2011. Production is expected to begin this summer, with “X-Men” and “X2: X-Men United” director Bryan Singer producing “First Class” alongside Lauren Shuler Donner and Simon Kinberg. “I’ve been a fan of Matthew’s since ‘Layer Cake,’ ” Singer said in a statement regarding the announcement. “He has a deft hand with multiple characters and storylines, and a great love of the X-Men universe. I feel the combination of this story and his vision will make for an exciting and original X-Men film.” “X-Men: First Class” is expected to focus on younger versions of Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr (played by Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, respectively, in the original franchise), before Xavier established his school for mutants and Lensherr adopted the name Magneto. The plot will explore the events that led up to the rift between the two characters. No cast has been announced at this point for “X-Men: First Class.” ” ‘X-Men: First Class’ presents an exciting opportunity to further explore the history and relationships of these beloved characters,” said Emma Watts, Fox president of production. “Matthew’s combination of talent, verve and vision is perfectly suited to the task.” Who do you think should star in “X-Men: First Class”? Share your casting ideas in the comments. For breaking news and previews of the latest comic book movies — updated around the clock — visit SplashPage.MTV.com .
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‘X-Men: First Class’ Gets ‘Kick-Ass’ Director And 2011 Release Date
