Marvel Entertainment and its distribution partner Paramount Pictures have staked a claim to May 2nd, 2008, as the date for the debut of Iron Man, the first film produced independently by Marvel.  As was previously reported (see 'Marvel Movie Slate Takes Shape') Jon Favreau has signed on to direct the Iron Man film, which will be produced by Avi Arad under his newly launched production company, Avi Arad Productions (see 'Avi Arad Leaving Marvel').

Iron Man will also likely be the first film financed through Marvel's $525 million revolving film financing facility and distributed under Marvel's overall distribution arrangement with Paramount.  Michael Helfant, the President and COO of Marvel Studios, picked Iron Man as the first 'in-house' Marvel movie over a Hulk sequel, because he was, 'extremely pleased with the progress of the script, the production team we are forming, and the initial production designs.'

Early May release dates have functioned as great launching pads for some films including the first Spider-Man film, Universal's Mummy movies, and the second X-Men film, although Tom Cruise's Mission: Impossible 3, which debuted during the first week of May this year was a disappointment.  The early May date should also coincide with Free Comic Book Day and provide both retailers and Marvel with some excellent cross-marketing opportunities.