Quibi has greenlit a new documentary series from “Avengers: Infinity War” directors Anthony Russo and Joseph Russo highlighting the rise of comic book juggernauts Marvel and DC, the upcoming mobile-only streaming service shared on Wednesday morning.
The series, dubbed “Slugfest,” will be executive produced by both Russo brothers. “Slugfest” will chronicle the early days and growth of Marvel and DC, as the two preeminent comic book publishers — fueled by creativity and competition — battled for bragging rights; the series will also look at the lasting cultural impact stemming from the Marvel-DC rivalry, as well as little-known stories from behind-the-scenes.
“Slugfest” will be directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, who both worked together previously on “Framing John DeLorean” and “Believer.” AGBT CEO Todd Makurath, Peter Rieveschl, Nick Gilhool, and Jen Casey will serve as producers.
The series is based on Reed Tucker’s 2017 book “Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-Year Battle Between Marvel and DC.”
Quibi is set to debut on April 6,2020 in the U.S. The company, led by founder Jeffrey Katzenberg and CEO Meg Whitman, has spent much of 2019 greenlighting dozens of shows from a number of big stars, including Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Lopez, and Stephen Curry, among others. Los Angeles-based Quibi announced last month it had sold out its $150 million advertising inventory for its first year.
Quibi shows will only be available on mobile devices, with each episode running no longer than 10 minutes. The app will cost viewers $4.99 per month for ad-supported viewing, or run $7.99 for ad-free viewing when it debuts next spring.
You can check out TheWrap’s interview with Whitman on Quibi’s release strategy here.