Zak Penn, who scripted the "X2" and "X3" movies, has signed a first-look, two-year deal with 20th Century Fox, according to Variety. This agreement allows Penn to develop a film he will direct, possibly a new spin-off of the X-Men franchise, as reported by ign.com.

This movie would not include the Wolverine or Magneto films, both of which are now in development.

Sources indicate that the new project would focus on several younger mutants at Professor X's school for gifted children, including some previously seen in the X-Men films.

There are no indications that this deal would include a spin-off about fan-favorite character Storm.

Regarding the upcoming "X-Men 3" movie, casting remains to be completed. Roles still to be filled include Angel, his father and Gambit, who is is not expected to have a major part in the film. The role of Colossus may be recast, according to Internet rumors. The Nightcrawler character is apparently out of the film after the company released the actor who played him in the last movie from his contract.

Maggie Grace of ABC's "Lost" apparently is no longer in the running to portray Kitty Pryde for several reasons, not the least of which is that she was considered too old for the part. Apparently, pages from Joss Whedon's "Astonishing X-Men" comic are being used as a template when considering actresses for the role.

Filming for "X-Men 3" starts this August, with a release date of May 26, 2006.