We don’t really envy anyone bold enough to (re-)tackle the behemoth sci-fi epic DUNE. I mean, if David lynch had his troubles adapting the Frank Herbert classic, who wouldn’t?
Well, earlier this year it was reported that actor-turned-director Peter Berg (THE KINGDOM, HANCOCK) was the latest filmmaker deemed the man for the job. But not so fast! According to someone in the know over at Pajiba, Paramount is hard at search for a new director as Peter Berg has apparently severed ties.
With no known reason for the departure (or if it is indeed true), rumors are now hitting that a pair of Neil(l)s have catapulted into front-running position. Neil Marshall (THE DESCENT, DOOMSDAY) is said to have a slight edge, with Neill Blomkamp (DISTRICT 9) in short step behind. Hmmm. How about Neil LaBute for good measure?
Regardless of who does end up landing the gig, the top studio brass at Paramount are determined to find a filmmaker who can deliver the film for under $175 million, and someone who is not only familiar with Herbert’s source material, but has a long-running passion for and enthusiasm for the project.
All of this speculation of course, but when shit becomes substantiated, you’ll be the first informed!