Chief Creative Officer of Marvel Entertainment, Joe Quesada, says Marvel still has the rights to Namor the Sub-Mariner.
In a recent interview with Kevin Smith for his 'Fat Man on Batman' podcast, Marvel's Joe Quesada was asked mostly about the direction of Marvel Studios' plans for future projects. Among the topics discussed involved the Netflix Marvel shows, which are all expected to cross over into the 'Defenders' series before the premiere of 'Daredevil' season three. Smith also happened to ask about the film rights to the classic character, Namor the Sub-Mariner. According to him, the rights are still in the safe hands of Marvel (36:40):
"I can't speak for studios…as far as I know, we [own the rights]. Its not at FOX. Its not at Sony."
For those unfamiliar with the character, Namor is considered comics' first "anti-hero". First appearing as an enemy of the surface world, Namor is the ruler of Marvel's version of Atlantis who declares war on humanity for polluting and endangering the ocean world. While his initial intentions were hostile, he has eventually evolved and has become affiliated with teams such as the Fantastic Four, Avengers, and the Defenders. His lineage is that of a half-human/half-atlantean, but his powers are just as strong as any pure Atlantean, including the ability to breathe underwater, communicate with ocean life, mimic the abilities of any sea creature, enhanced strength and durability, even the power to fly thanks to tiny, hermes-esqe wings on his ankles.
Quesada refused to comment on whether we'll get to see Namor in a movie or Netflix series, stating that its just too early to tell without an official confirmation, but knowing that the rights to such a revered character are in the capable hands of Marvel, it could mean the option isn't far behind.
