Films, News, Women Writers

Jac Schaeffer to Pen Standalone Black Widow Film

Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in “Captain America: Civil War”

Black Widow is finally getting her own movie — and a woman-written movie at that. TheWrap reports that Jac Schaeffer, the screenwriter behind the upcoming “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” remake, has been tapped to write the solo film for Marvel Studios.

Played by Scarlett Johansson, Black Widow aka Natasha Romanoff has been a mainstay of the Marvel Cinematic Universe since her 2010 debut in “Iron Man 2.” She’ll next appear in “Avengers: Infinity War,” out May 4, and another as-yet untitled “Avengers” flick, which is expected to bow in May 2019.

No official release date has been set for “Black Widow” yet. However, Marvel prez Kevin Feige has said that the studio is “committing” to giving Black Widow her own film and possibly her own franchise. “She’s an amazing character,” he told Deadline in 2016. “We think Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of her is amazing. She’s a lead Avenger and has amazing stories in her own right.”

The renewed momentum behind “Black Widow” is likely due in part to the massive success of Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman.” The superheroine flick grossed over $821 million internationally, popped up in several Best of 2017 lists, and showed in no uncertain terms that 1) women can anchor a blockbuster and 2) women will pay to see blockbusters. Given the widespread love for “Wonder Woman” — as well as excitement for the upcoming female driven, women-helmed “Captain Marvel” and “Silver & Black” — let’s hope Marvel is also fully “committing” to hiring a female director for “Black Widow.”

Schaeffer’s screenwriting credits include the sci-fi rom-com “TiMER,” which she also directed, and the gender flipped remake of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.” The latter, starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson, will hit theaters August 10. Schaeffer’s script “The Shower” made the Black List 2014 and the following year news broke that Hathaway was attached to topline and produce the sci-fi comedy.


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