The shared world reviving legendary creatures from early Hollywood horror films — like the monster version of the Marvel Cinematic Universe — now has an official name, which Universal Pictures announced Monday. Starring Tom Cruise, Sofia Boutella and Russell Crowe, The Mummy (in theaters June 9) kicks off the Dark Universe, and Johnny Depp and Javier Bardem have boarded the franchise as the Invisible Man and Frankenstein's Monster respectively (who will appear in future projects).
“We take enormous pride in the creativity and passion that has inspired the reimagining of Universal’s iconic monsters and promise audiences we will expand this series strategically,” Donna Langley, chairman of Universal Pictures, said in a statement.
In addition, Oscar-winning composer Danny Elfman is creating an original theme to accompany the Dark Universe logo that will open each film, and the series will continue next with Bride of Frankenstein, slated for release Feb. 14, 2019. No actress has been cast in the lead role yet but Bill Condon (Beauty and the Beast) is signed on to direct a screenplay by David Koepp.
