Ultimate DVD: USA Today notes that the first release in the made-for-video deal between Lions Gate and Marvel will be an animated version of The Avengers, based on The Ultimates series. It's apparently due on DVD in 2006. The Punisher is due out on video Sept. 7, while Black Widow is set as the partnership's next big-screen release:
 
"Part of the formula, says Lions Gate president Steve Beeks: 'Characters who tend not to be superheroes, who don't jump off buildings or blow things up.' So the films can be made cheaper than special-effects extravaganzas. 'It's a different model, but it's one that can be very enjoyable to watch.'"
 
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the 66-minute Avengers is still in the script phase.