The Hollywood Roundup
What the hell is happening in Tinsel Town!
Pac-Man, Castlevania movies in the works - Game-inspired films have been both critical and financial bombs, but that's not stopping Crystal Sky Pictures from bringing these two childhood remnants to the big screen. No release date has been set for either, as they're both still in the planning stages.
Who will replace Tobey as Spider-Man? - It's long been rumored that Tobey Maguire would hang up his tights after the third Spider-Man film. Sony's been tight-lipped about replacing him, but multiple sources indicate that Almost Famous star Patrick Fugit is on the shortlist to try on the red and blue suit. Sony is hoping to reenergize the franchise with new blood and a new feel, and replacing Spidey would be a leap in that direction for sure. Zodiac writer James Vanerbilt is writing the script, and Sam Raimi may be stepping aside for the film, which isn't expected to hit theaters until 2010, at least. Rumor has it that the fourth and fifth Spidey movies may be filmed in tandem, as well.
Rainn Wilson cast in Transformers 2 - If you've ever wanted to see Dwight Schrute battle giant robots, here's your chance. No need to worry, my dear Autobot purists; the "Office" star will only have a bit part, playing a professor of some sort. It does, however, give credit to the rumor that Michael Bay is going for a more comedic tone this time around.
Jakey G in Prince of Persia - Jake Gyllenhaal will play Dastan, the young Persian prince from the 6th century who joins forces with an exotic princess named Tamina (played by Gemma Arterton) to prevent a villainous nobleman from possessing the Sands of Time, a gift from the gods that can control and reverse time, giving its possessor the ability to rule the world. Filming starts in July for a hoped 2009 release.
Spike Lee making Michael Jordan Documentary - Lee announced at this year's Cannes Film Festival that he's about to start filming a feature-length documentary oh what is perhaps the best basketball player ever to touch the court, Michael Jordan. The film will feature previously unseen footage of the superstar, pulled largely from the final two years of his career. Exciting news for Jordan fans, for sure.
Highlander remake in the works - The original 1986 Highlander film, starring Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery, is about to be remade. Summit Entertainment hopes to kick-start a new series of big-budget Highlander movies with the new take on the immortal warrior franchise. No word on casting or a release date yet.
