Marvel and DC may have a third cinematic universe to contend with as comics publisher Valiant has just entered a deal to develop their titles into big screen features. The New York Times reports that Valiant entered into an agreement with DMG Entertainment. The Chinese company is best known for co-financing TRANSCENDENCE and IRON MAN 3 and will now partner with Valiant on adapting their comics as well as creating new ones aimed at Chinese audiences.
DMG CEO Dan Mintz had this to say about the deal.
“[T]aking a stake in the last independent massive comic universe is a strategic investment for DMG that will produce movies and TV that are both appealing and relevant to a global audience.”
Valiant is best known for the characters Harbinger, Bloodshot, X-O Manowar, Turok, Shadowman, and more. Various Valiant titles have been in development but none have actually made it to the big screen yet. The deal is said to be a “nine figure” agreement between Valiant and DMG which means they are not messing around. Whether the projects expand to the small screen as well remains to be seen, but this is easily the biggest threat to Marvel or DC out there.
What comes next is the biggest mystery. With some characters optioned out to other studios, Valiant may try to reclaim those properties and begin developing their own slate. Or, Valiant may not make their films interconnected at all. No matter what happens, this news should make comics and superhero movie fans excited as it broadens the depth and scope of what kinds of movies are made in the genre.