Aronofsky won't direct 'Wolverine' film

LOS ANGELES, March 17 (UPI) -- U.S. director Darren Aronofsky has announced he will not direct a "Wolverine" sequel as planned because of the lengthy time commitment it required.

Aronofsky was nominated for an Oscar this year for helming "Black Swan." His other film credits include "The Wrestler," "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Fountain," which featured Hugh Jackman, the star of the "Wolverine" superhero franchise.

"As I talked more about the film with my collaborators at Fox, it became clear that the production of 'The Wolverine' would keep me out of the country for almost a year," Aronofsky said in a joint statement with 20th Century Fox. "I was not comfortable being away from my family for that length of time. I am sad that I won't be able to see the project through, as it is a terrific script and I was very much looking forward to working with my friend, Hugh Jackman, again."

"While we are, of course, disappointed that Darren can't do 'The Wolverine,' we also understand and respect his reasons," Fox added. "Having done both 'The Wrestler' and 'Black Swan' with Darren, we know he is an extraordinary talent and we look forward to working with him on other projects in the future. Hugh Jackman and Fox both remain fully committed to making 'The Wolverine.' We will regroup and move forward aggressively."

The Hollywood Reporter said a release date has not yet been set for the latest "Wolverine" action picture.