On the heels of "A Wrinkle in Time," Ava DuVernay has already booked another big-budget project.
» RELATED: Ava DuVernay to direct DC superhero film 'The New Gods'
Warner Bros. announced Thursday that she will direct "The New Gods," a DC Comics property created by the famed comic book artist Jack Kirby. It's an elaborate science fiction work, part of Kirby's "Fourth World Saga," about two warring alien planets.
DuVernay was the first black woman to direct a live-action movie with a budget over $100 million with “A Wrinkle in Time.” “The New Gods” will be her second.
Curious about the fan-favorite series? Here’s what you should know.
Tell me more about the creator.
Jack Kirby was an American comic book artist, writer and editor. He grew up in New York and learned to draw cartoon figures by tracing characters from comic strips. By the 1930s, he had made a career out of it. He helped create some of the most famous heroes, including the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, Captain America and the Hulk, according to the DC Comics. The New Gods debuted in 1971. Kirby died in 1994 at age 76.
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Who are the New Gods?
The New Gods are natives from the twin planets New Genesis and Apokolips. They were created after the old gods were destroyed during Ragnarok, and the destruction caused world to split into two, according to the DC Comics. While New Genesis, ruled by Highfather, is considered a paradise, Apokolips, ruled by tyrant Darkseid, is a nightmarish dystopia. Some of the New Gods are Bekka, Big Barda, Forager, Forever People, Lightray, Orion and Mister Miracle.
What are their powers?
Their strengths include immortality, invulnerability, super stamina, superhuman reflexes and immunity. While their powers are many, they are vulnerable to a substance called Radion. It’s toxic in huge amounts or after explosive exposure. It can be deadly.
How did DuVernay get involved?
The company didn't disclose details about the deal, but DuVernay, 45, has been a fan of the series for years. She once tweeted that her favorite superhero was Big Barda. On Thursday, she paid tribute to Kirby in another tweet.
When is the movie coming out?
No date has been released yet. However, DC’s “Wonder Woman” sequel is in development and an “Aquaman” spinoff is due out in December.
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The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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