A



n open casting call has been announced for Runaways, the Marvel Studios adaptation set to begin filming in January.

Created by Brian K. Vaughan and Adrian Alphona, Runaways centers on six kids who discover their parents are super-villains known as the Pride. Fleeing from their homes, the kids band together to learn about their inherited powers, defeat the Pride and make up for the evil committed by their parents.

The auditions website breaks down the descriptions for what appear to be the roles of Alex Wilder, Chase Stein, Nico Minoru, Gertrude Yorkes, Karolina Dean and Molly Hayes -- the original six Runaways:

BOYS

Boy 1: Very smart, natural leader, in need of a father figure

Male, African American, must play 16-18

Must be at least 16 by January 2011

Boy 2: A rebel, ignores rules and authority, wounded inside

Male, must play 16-18

Must be at least 16 by January 2011

GIRLS

Girl 1: Uniquely beautiful, nurturing but guarded

Female, must play 16-18

Must be at least 16 by January 2011

Girl 2: Chubby oddball, smart and verbal

Female, must play 16-18

Must be at least 16 by January 2011

Girl 3: Conventionally beautiful, with an unchecked ego

Female, must play 15-18

Must be at least 16 by January 2011

Girl 4: An innocent, wide-eyed and overprotected

Female, must play 8-10

Must be at least 9 by January 2011

The Disney Film Auditions blog notes that while the website says "Small Faces," it is indeed for Runaways; casting directors originally wanted to keep the call discreet.

Runaways will be directed by Peter Sollett (Nick And Nora’s Infinite Playlist) from a script by Drew Pearce (No Heroics) and Vaughan. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige will serve as executive producer.