Spielberg drops Harvey | Movie News

Spielberg drops Harvey
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Strike Back below!
by: Mike Sampson Dec. 4, 2009

As a follower of all things Spielberg, I can't say that I'm all that disappointed in the news that he'll no longer be directing a remake of HARVEY for DreamWorks and Fox. The project had been set up for Spielberg to begin directing in early 2010 but the director had trouble finding a leading man to take over the role made famous by Jimmy Stewart in the 1950 film. The original, and obvious, choice was Tom Hanks but Hanks wisely wanted no part in trying to recreate the role (nor further advancing the notion that he's the "modern day Jimmy Stewart").

About two months ago the rumor broke that Spielberg was in talks with Robert Downey, Jr. to star in the film. The actor was interested and even handed in some notes on the script by Jonathan Topper. But those notes never really jived with Spielberg's creative vision for the film and both director and actor amicably walked away from the production.

It's noted that Fox will continue trying to launch a HARVEY remake and may even reapproach Spielberg and Downey, Jr. in the near future. But here's hoping they leave well enough alone. This may be wishful thinking but Spielberg hasn't directed a film that isn't a) an adaptation of a previously existing story, b) based on a true story or c) a remake, since E.T. I'm just waiting for the man to hatch one of his trademark original concepts and bring it to us, Amblin style.

Source: Variety

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Extra Tidbit: That said, I *would* love to see Spielberg and Downey, Jr. work together.

6 discussions Expand all
 
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thedrizzle
3:17AM on 12/06/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
RDJ knows that you never go full retard.
RDJ knows that you never go full retard.
 
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Chess007
8:53PM on 12/04/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
I never really thought of Tom Hanks as the next Jimmy Stewart. Far, far, far from it actually. I always pictured Jim Carrey as the next Jimmy. Especially after his performance in The Majestic. Given I think the original is one of the best movies ever made next to Arsenic and Old Lace, but I would pay to see Jim Carrey and Spielberg remake this movie. Definitely would not want to see Hanks or...
I never really thought of Tom Hanks as the next Jimmy Stewart. Far, far, far from it actually. I always pictured Jim Carrey as the next Jimmy. Especially after his performance in The Majestic. Given I think the original is one of the best movies ever made next to Arsenic and Old Lace, but I would pay to see Jim Carrey and Spielberg remake this movie. Definitely would not want to see Hanks or Downey Jr in this role and I've been a Downey Jr fan as long as he's been acting.
 
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HoyleHaw
8:40PM on 12/04/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
I have nothing but respect for Spielberg. The man knows a lot about movies, audiences, and how to bounce back from a misstep. I'm glad he dropped this, cuz I was beginning to worry. Suddenly it seemed he was all about the classy remakes. Hell, if the man woke up one day and decided he didn't wanna make movies anymore I'd understand, but one remake a decade is enough. At least.
I have nothing but respect for Spielberg. The man knows a lot about movies, audiences, and how to bounce back from a misstep. I'm glad he dropped this, cuz I was beginning to worry. Suddenly it seemed he was all about the classy remakes. Hell, if the man woke up one day and decided he didn't wanna make movies anymore I'd understand, but one remake a decade is enough. At least.
 
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DanoTehWolfman
8:22PM on 12/04/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
I love the original, but...
Am I the only one who could totally see John Cusack owning that role...and his sister playing the crazy drunk bitch...I mean the guy's sister.
Am I the only one who could totally see John Cusack owning that role...and his sister playing the crazy drunk bitch...I mean the guy's sister.
 
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rbevanx
5:30PM on 12/04/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
Thank you
First Oldboy and now this. Clearly Spielberg reads this site lol.
First Oldboy and now this. Clearly Spielberg reads this site lol.
 
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Skellington
10:16AM on 12/04/2009 Add as a friend | MFC profile
Not disappointed either.

I like the original and while it wouldnt have been blasphemy to remake it, I just dont see the point. Its not one of those movies that could use an update, its fine as it is.
Not disappointed either.

I like the original and while it wouldnt have been blasphemy to remake it, I just dont see the point. Its not one of those movies that could use an update, its fine as it is.