Marvel Studios looked like its own unstoppable juggernaut just a few months ago. Now, there's a creepy aura of bargain-basement backdoor dealing surrounding the production company and its casting of Iron Man 2.
When Terrence Howard lost out on the War Machine role for the upcoming sequel, reports said he was a pain in the cast-iron butt during production on Jon Favreau's original production. But, Howard hinted that he couldn't arrive at a price for the sequel.
Favreau traded up for Don Cheadle, but surely Marvel made enough money off the success of Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk last summer to avoid such nickel-and-diming.
Then, negotiations broke down between Marvel and Samuel L. Jackson over his return as Nick Fury. That's a blow to Marvel's entire series of upcoming movies, as Fury could play a part in Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America and any other flick leading up to The Avengers.
Now, Marvel has reportedly low-balled Mickey Rourke for the villain's role in Iron Man 2. That's no way to treat an Oscar nominee on the rise. Finally, Sam Rockwell is still on hold for his part in Favreau's second go at comic book movies.
The economy is struggling, and Hollywood is laying off people all over town. Is it possible the recession is equally rough on superheroes?
Image courtesy Marvel Comics
See also:
