One really has to wonder why this project was even conceived in the first place. There should be a rule for cheesy, dated classics like Footloose that says a remake of any kind is merely out of question, that introducing the 21st century to Ren and his hip-swinging, pelvic-thrusting, laughable one-liner ways would be ludicrous. But no, Paramount Pictures seems to think we need to "hear it for the boy" one more time (too many).
However, as set as the studio is on remaking the film, it's not so set on coughing up the money to likely make it just bearably worthwhile for a good laugh at least. According to Kenny Ortega, director of the recently released This Is It, he wanted $30 million from the studio to ensure that the film was full of elaborate dance sequences and big musical numbers to win over the audience. And it's not hard to imagine what Ortega's vision would have looked like, with Zac Efron initially cast as the rambunctious Ren, only to be replaced by Gossip Girl's one and only, Chace Crawford. Ortega wasn't trying to appeal to the slew of premature, sexually overcharged preteens of the world by any chance, was he?
Well not that it matters so much now because Paramount's Adam Goodwin disagreed with Ortega's ideas, his belief being that the remake should embody an edgier tone with a little more flesh and a little less flash. Oh, and of course a $5 million cheaper budget.
Regardless of who had the better idea, Ortega jumped ship after the two were unable to negotiate, and for awhile it was uncertain whether the film would even be made at all. That is until Craig Brewer, possibly the most unlikely candidate imaginable, stepped onboard to take Ortega's place. Why Paramount chose the Hustle & Flow / Black Snake Moan director for the project, one can only guess. But one thing is for certain: the film will certainly be cheaper, and apparently include just a little more hustle and a little less flow, if you catch my drift.
This blog has been contributed by Film & TV Channel assistant Kristen Berke.
Comments
good one
November 16, 2009 - 12:42am — dishatestgood one
great
November 16, 2009 - 12:43am — dishatest123great
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