‘Avengers’ news: sequel is happening, makes $702 million
By Meriah Doty | Movie Talk – 59 minutes ago
We figured it was only a matter of time before we got the official word, but this quickly?
Aw, yeah.
Disney's Bob Iger has answered every fanboy and fangirl's biggest wish, today confirming plans for an "Avengers" sequel.
And if that wasn't enough, the Disney CEO had even more exciting news. Here's what he had to say (during a conference call with analysts, mind you):
"Marvel's The Avengers" shattered U.S. box office records with $207.1 million in its opening weekend.
It has brought in more than $702 million globally to date.
Some Disney theme parks are making room for "Avengers"-based attractions.
Iger also repeated previous anouncemnts made by Marvel Studios:
- The third "Iron Man" is scheduled for 2013.
- "Thor" numero dos is also on the slate for 2013.
- A "Captain America" sequel should happen in 2014.
While we now know there is, in fact, an "Avengers" sequel in the works, Iger did not disclose a date for it. (Though Reelz.com has speculated it could very well be May 16, 2014, as the studio has already reserved that release date.)
Joss Whedon has yet to say whether he's writing and/or directing the next installment. But he has been quoted recently as saying, "You know what, I haven't really thought about it. It's time for me to rest, and then see if that's even feasible."
And no one has spoken yet on which actors are returning for the sequel.
For now, we'll have to savor the tease to part II that was revealed in the final scene: During mid-credits of "The Avengers," the franchise's next villain was revealed to be... [SPOILER ALERT!]... the death-worshiping Thanos -- a villian that first appeared in Marvel Comics in 1973.
