During their panel at this year’s Comic-Con, Legendary Pictures made the surprise announcement of a King Kong prequel film, titled Skull Island. Fan speculation immediately went into overdrive, but details on the project have remained scarce until today. An official press release from the studio confirms that Tom Hiddleston has been tapped to star in the film, with The Kings of Summer director Jordan Vogt-Roberts behind the camera. Here’s the news:
Legendary announced its plans to make a feature film based on the cinematic origins of King Kong during this year’s San Diego Comic Con with an original draft of the script by Max Borenstein. Previous works have touched on the island, but staying on and exploring this mysterious and dangerous place offers Legendary the opportunity to take audiences deeper inside this rich world with a style and scope that parallels other Legendary productions. Universal Pictures will distribute the film on November 4, 2016.
Vogt-Roberts directed and executive produced the Sundance darling THE KINGS OF SUMMER. He has also directed the pilot and multiple episodes of FX’s new series “You’re the Worst” and is set to direct METAL GEAR SOLID for Sony. His other credits include directing the pilot of “Cocked” for Amazon Studios and directing and executive producing the concert documentary NICK OFFERMAN: AMERICAN HAM. He is represented by UTA, 3 Arts Entertainment and attorneys Alan Wertheimer and Andy Gawker.
Hiddleston’s credits include MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE, and WAR HORSE. He is also known for portraying Thor’s nemesis and brother, Loki, in Marvel’s THOR, THOR: THE DARK WORLD, and THE AVENGERS. Upcoming projects include Legendary’s gothic horror CRIMSON PEAK from director Guillermo del Toro, Ben Wheatley’s adaptation of J.G. Ballard’s HIGH-RISE and Marc Abraham’s Hank Williams biopic I SAW THE LIGHT. He is repped by William Morris Endeavor, Hamilton Hodell and Authentic Management.
We spoke with Vogt-Roberts a couple of months ago about his involvement with FX’s You’re the Worst, but he remained tight-lipped on upcoming projects. This seems like a big win for him, as it’s the second high-profile studio film he’s been attached to, and should really give him an opportunity to showcase his talents. Skull Island should be entering production soon, with a November 2016 release date planned.
Honored to join the @Legendary family. Brace for Skull Island!! pic.twitter.com/wufi6ejNwE
— Jordan Vogt-Roberts (@VogtRoberts) September 16, 2014
jordan vogt-roberts legendary pictures skull island tom hiddleston