The third installment of the X-Men franchise is just kicking into gear, and now it appears so is the mutant spin-off based on the immensely popular Wolverine character, played by Hugh Jackman.

For some, starring as a lead in a movie is quite an achievement. But for Jackman, it's just the tip of the iceberg as the Australian born actor's new-born Seed Productions has signed a first-look deal with 20th Century Fox, meaning Jackman himself will be producing the movie.

The actor, who first played Wolverine in the 2000 blockbuster "X-Men," and his producing partner, John Palermo, are now waiting on the final draft of the script from screenwriter David Benioff (best known for "Troy"). Lauren Shuler Donner and Marvel Comics' Avi Arad are set co-executive-produce.

With the upcoming third X-Men film going into production, "Wolverine" will be kept on the back burner until "X3" has been completed.

"It got to be a roller-coaster ride there, but I wasn't worried because the script is so strong," said Jackman, discussing the recent announcement regarding Brett Ratner's appointment to the helm of the third film.

"Brett has come in with a lot of enthusiasm and full understanding of the franchise," he said.

"X3" is still scheduled for release in May of 2006, and there are also rumors suggesting another movie is in the works from the mutant Marvel series, this time focusing on the character of Magneto, played by Sir Ian McKellen.