Variety reports shocking developments regarding the Hugh Jackman Wolverine spin-off! First off, the official film title is X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE. Remember when we first reported on that as a possible title?

The publication goes on to say that the film (originally planned for a 2008 release) has been pushed back to May 1, 2009. XMF had learned earlier that 20th Century Fox was originally eyeing a possible July 2008 date.

Interesting tidbits: Liev Schreiber is in final talks to star as the younger version of nemesis William Stryker (originally played by Brian Cox in X2). The crew is also looking to partially film in New Orleans. The site mentions that this might be a clue that the film will introduce GAMBIT - a character fans have been waiting to see since the first X-flick debuted in 2000.

On a side note, we’re still not sure what this means for the MAGNETO film. Will the film be pushed up, back, or still claim it’s originally planned 2009 release year? Stay tuned to XMF for more updates as they develop.