Darren Aronofsky has left the sequel to X-Men Origins: Wolverine, The Wolverine, because of the time that would have been spent on location in Japan.

"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. I was not comfortable being away from my family for that length of time,"

Aronofsky said in a statement.

"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."

Many were puzzled at his appointment to the director's role, but with his recent success a few of those people might have changed their minds and possibly been looking forward to his interpretation of the character. It'll be interesting to see who next takes up position in the directors chair.

In this movie Wolverine will travel to Japan to follow his heart and more about his shadowy past would be revealed (possibly using the 'Wolverine' mini series and Uncanny X-Men #172-173, as inspiration).