We’ve been waiting for David Gordon Green’s SUSPIRIA remake for over two years now (if “waiting” is the correct word). The last substantial update we were privy to was back in September of 2009 – and that update said the flick would go before cameras this year. Obviously, that’s not happening. So will it ever? If the producer is to be believed (hmmm), it will, next year. Ah, there’s always next year…
In a brief interview with our Italian buddies over at BadTate.it, producer Marco Morabito says that after a long delay, original helmer Dario Argento has finally allowed the rights to pass over to the new creative team, firmly convinced that his film cannot be surpassed. It would be tough to argue with him, because flawed as it may be, SUSPIRIA is masterpiece of mood, color and atmosphere. It’s certainly the man’s greatest work, likely why he’s been hesitant to see it remade.
That was not the only hold up, however; when he was originally hired, Green’s surprise hit PINEAPPLE EXPRESS had not yet been released, and the director was mostly known for artier fare like SNOW ANGELS. However, after the flick came out, Green was suddenly inundated with Hollywood offers, which held up the process of revving up SUSPIRIA. (Green most recently directed the comedy YOUR HIGHNESS, starring James Franco, Natalie Portman and Danny McBride; it comes out next spring.) Aside from producer/director duties on the HBO comedy series “Eastbound and Down”, Green’s slate appears to finally be open. For now.
Finally, there was apparently an rumor going around that Marilyn Manson would have some sort of role in the picture; Morabito flatly denied it, which is just as well. This needs to be cast with unassuming types, not someone who inherently weirds you out.
Hopefully more news on this will come down the pipeline soon. While I’m not fully behind it, I’m still interested to follow its development.