Artisan Entertainment and producer Avi Arad (Spider-Man , X-Men) are currently filming a full length feature based on the Marvel Comics legendary swamp creature of the 70's. The movie, about a scientist doing research in the Florida everglades is being filmed in, of all places...Australia!

For those unfamiliar with this "swampy" character, it's the story of Ted Sallis, a scientist who concocts a version of the famed super soldier serum, yes, the same magical elixure that gave us "Captain America", unfortunately for Dr. Sallis the serum is highly prized amongst those who would use it for their own devious plans. While fleeing from such individuals Sallis, instead of risking the serum possibly falling into hostile hands, takes and injects the formula into himself, the serum along with the combination of the everglades environment and flora transforms the mild mannered doctor Sallis into the terrifying, mindless "Man-Thing", a huge, hideous creature who feeds only on the fear of its victims!

The movie is being helmed by director Brett Leonard (Lawnmower Man , Virtuosity) and stars; Mark Stevens, Jack Thompson (Attack of the Clones , Breaker Morant), Rawiri Paratene (the Whale Rider), Rachel Taylor, and Steve Bastoni (Matrix Reloaded). The film has a minimal budget as far as hollywood goes...less than 10 million dollars. The film should wrap up production by March of 2004 in time for a late summer release. DC Comics own boggy creation , "SWAMP THING", was turned into a low budget feature film in the early 1980's. It made poor box office but over the years it has attained the status of "Cult Classic"...oh, and by the way, that film was directed by a little known filmaker by the name of...Wes Craven (Nightmare on Elm Street , SCREAM).

So beware moviegoers, for whatever knows fear Burns at the "Man-Thing's" touch...