Shane Black, the screenwriter and director whose "Lethal Weapon" script redefined the action genre, is in talks with Marvel to write and direct the third installment in the mega-successful "Iron Man" series.
"Nothing has been decided yet," Black told TheWrap on Thursday. "I've taken a few meetings and I'll probably take a few more before Marvel decides."
Black directed "Iron Man" star Robert Downey Jr. in the 2005 "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," Downey has director approval on the franchise.
Black's work is known for combining elements of action, thriller, noir and comedy.
He also is known as one of the highest-paid screenwriters in Hollywood: His first movie was 1987's "Lethal Weapon." His 1991 "The Last Boy Scout" sold for $1.75 million, his 1993 "Last Action Hero" sold for $1 million and his 1996 "The Long Kiss Goodnight" sold for $4 million.
John Favreau, who directed the first two "Iron Man" films, announced in late Dec. that he will not be returning to the third.
