May 13, 2003 - "The Punisher," the latest comic book to transition to the big screen, has found its villain. John Travolta will play the main bad guy in the film according to Artisan Pictures and Marvel Studios. Travolta will star as Howard Saint, a criminal whose violent past has remained hidden beneath his successful businessman exterior. His darker side emerges when his son is brutally slain.
Travolta joins Thomas Jane who has already committed to the title role. Jonathan Hensleigh will direct "The Punisher" and production is expected to begin in July with a summer 2004 release date targeted.
In a press release announcing Travolta's involvement Marvel's Avi Arad said, “This is yet another example of marquee, A-list talent finding intrigue with and attraction to the Marvel Universe. John has proven through his career that he can inject into the most villainous roles an energy and humanity that registers with audiences – helping distinguish these characters’ beyond a traditional hero’s foil."
"The Punisher" - The Official Synopsis
"The Punisher" tells the story of FBI undercover agent, Frank Castle, who until now has beat considerable odds. A former Special Forces operative, he is finally moving out of the field and into a desk job – and a normal life with his wife and son. Then Castle’s world is shaken to its core by a nightmare he has longed feared: his family is executed as a repercussion from his final undercover assignment. With unparalleled intensity, ferocious intelligence and fearless actions, Castle seeks to punish the murderers – and finds the one thing he least expected: redemption.
Source: Artisan Entertainment
