From 'Iron Man' To 'Man Of Bronze', Shane Black's Next Film Will Be 'Doc Savage'

Cover Art by James Bama

Shane Black, director of the current smash, 'Iron Man 3', will be turning his attention to the man of bronze this time, as he has been signed to bring Doc Savage to the screen in his next feature.

I love the pulp era stories and heroes, and hope it's set in the same 1930's as the original novels were. Be good to see Doc Savage and the Fabulous Five back on screen - they were last seen in the 1975 'Doc Savage: The Man Of Bronze', starring Ron Ely as the man of bronze (the movie was a bit cheesy and kitsch, I hope they don't go down that route this time!)  - and which story they decide to adapt from the many novels.

Here's the press release:

Sony Pictures Entertainment has closed its deal with Shane Black to co-write and direct Doc Savage, and Black is eyeing it as his next film, it was announced today by Doug Belgrad, president of Columbia Pictures, and Hannah Minghella, president of Production for the studio. Black co-wrote the screenplay with Anthony Bagarozzi and Charles Mondry, based on the hero of pulp novels, films, and comic books. Neal H. Moritz is producing the project with Ori Marmur through his Original Film banner. Michael Uslan will also serve as a producer on the film. 

Commenting on the announcement, Minghella said, “We couldn’t be more excited to be building a franchise from the ground up with Shane and this team. Shane and Neal have a fantastic understanding of the character and a great take on the material and we can’t wait to get this production up and running.” 

One of the most popular characters of the pulps of the 1930s and 40s, Doc Savage was also popularized on radio, film and television. He is a scientist, physician, adventurer, inventor, explorer and researcher. He has been trained since birth to be nearly superhuman in every way, with outstanding strength, a photographic memory, and vast knowledge and intelligence. He uses his skills and powers to punish evil wherever in the world he finds it. 

Black most recently co-wrote and directed Iron Man 3 which has grossed more than $700 million since opening a little more than one week ago. He previously wrote and directed Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. 

Sam Dickerman and Lauren Abrahams are overseeing the title for Columbia Pictures along with Minghella. Black is represented by David Greenblatt, WME and his attorney Alan Hergott.