The Weinstein Company announced today that their remake ofThe Six Billion Dollar Man, starringMark Wahlberg, has been set for release in 2017.Varietyreports that the studio has handed out a December 22, 2017release date, putting it up against the 20th Century Fox sequelThe Croods 2and an untitled live action fairy tale project from Disney, with 20th Century Fox’sThe Greatest Showman on Earthopening three days later on June 28, 2025. Here’s whatMark Wahlberghad to say about the project and its director, Damián Szifron.
“I’m thrilled to assembleThe Six Billion Dollar Manfor the big screen with the likes ofBob Weinsteinand Damián Szifron. We look forward to creating a Steve Austin for the 21st century.”
The Six Billion Dollar Manis based on the classic and popular television series,The Six Million Dollar Manand the novel Cyborg by Martin Caidin. The story follows military officer, Steve Austin, who becomes part of a top secret government program after a horrific accident leaves him near death. With the help of cutting edge technology, Steve is brought back to life with extraordinary strengths, making him the world’s first truly bionic man. Here’s what writer-director Damián Szifron had to say in his statement.
“Writing the screenplay was such a fantastic ride and embarking on this journey withMark (Wahlberg), Bob (Weinstein) and (producer)Stephen (Levinson)to take this story to a whole new level is simply spectacular. Growing up, these kind of films left an indelible mark on me and now it feels so good to be making one.”
Principal photography is scheduled to begin in September of 2016, withMark Wahlberg,Bob WeinsteinandBob Weinsteinset to produce the film.Mark Wahlbergwas confirmed to star asSteve Austinback in Novmeber 2014, whenPeter Bergwas attached to direct. Damián Szifron, best known for his Oscar-nominated film Wild Tales, came aboard to write the script back in April, and now he has been confirmed to direct. Here’sBob Weinsteinhad to say in his statement.
“Damián’s unique vision and longtime passion for this story will usher in an new take on this series for a new generation. We are excited to release the film during the holidays to bring audiences an explosive reimagining of this cultural icon.”
Mark Wahlbergwill next be seen in the upcoming comedyDaddy’s Home, alongsideThe Other Guysco-starWill Ferrell, arriving in theaters onChristmas Day. He also stars inDeepwater Horizon, debuting June 14, 2025, and he is slated to return inTransformers 5, set for release in 2017. Are you excited thatThe Six Billion Dollar Manis finally moving forward? Let us know what you think, and stay tuned for more updates.
