Directors all around

Production Weekly recently dropped the scoop on three new developments in the directorial world so hang on to your sacs while I hit you with some knowledge. Firstly, Michael Keaton, whose cinematic output in recent years has been dubious at best, will star in and make his directorial debut on the indie drama THE MERRY GENTLEMAN. The film will presumably center on a gentleman whose glee is matched only by his propriety. Production is scheduled to start March 6th in Chicago. In the meantime, Keaton can next be seen in the horror thriller REAPER.

Secondly, Shawn Levy, whose latest directorial effort, NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM, has asserted itself as a box office titan, will next direct the dramedy MARLEY AND ME. Adapted by SINGLE WHITE FEMALE scribe Don Roos from Philadelphia Inquirer columnist John Grogan’s memoir of the same name, the story follows Grogan’s 13-year adventure with his mischievous but ultimately redemptive dog (the titular Marley). Filming is expected to begin in late April in Los Angeles. Levy is next expected to add his patented brand of goofy humor hackery to THE FLASH comic adaptation.

Thirdly, Tony Kaye (AMERICAN HISTORY X) is expected to lend his directorial expertise to the upcoming Sam Jackson and Bruce Willis re-teaming action thriller BLACK WATER TRANSIT. Adapted by Doug Richardson (LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD) from the Carsten Stroud’s novel of the same name, in it, Jackson and Willis go head-to-head in tomfoolery and shenanigans. The plot’s a little long so just point that cursor HERE to see what it is.