07.25.08
Rebooting RoboCop
Rumours had been darting around about a possible Darren Aronofsky (”Pi,” “Requiem for Dream,” “The Fountain“) involvement in a revamp of the “RoboCop” franchise, and finally it has been confirmed. Aronofsky is set to direct, and David Self is set to handle the screenplay, in an attempt to get the film out by 2010. [Variety]
Not only does Aronofsky’s involvement seal the deal for me in terms of my interest in the project, it also marks yet another step for the helmer in breaking out into the mainstream limelight. Its kind of odd for him to pick such a project to revive, but he’ll get a franchise out of it. If he can use the current trend of making “deep” and “meaningful” comic or science fiction adaptations to his advantage, maybe he can please his legion of adoring fans as well as not pissing off adamant RoboFans. But if he screws up. I just don’t know. Ouch.
Whatever, the man has Evan Rachel Wood cast in his upcoming “The Wrestler,” I have to believe that he’s a genius, or something like it.
Sam Juliano said,
July 25, 2008 at 3:20 pm
I have stated on other blogs that I am of the strong opinion that Mr. Aronofsky is an essential figure in American cinema. I liked his PI the least of his three films, but some people I respect feel otherwise. REQUIEM FOR A DREAM is an extremely difficult film to watch, as it is graphic and disturbing, but it is still powerful.
THE FOUNTAIN, on the other hand is a beautiful, phantasmagoric exploration of eternal life, posed in exhiliarating metaphysical context with the overwhelming complicity of one of the greatest scores of recent years by Clint Mantsell. Hugh Jackman’s brave and electrifing performance, and a deeply affecting one by Rachel Weisz, are at the center of a film that transports you to spiritual heights rarely experienced or even posed in American cinema. Didactic criticism of this film,and the penchant to “tow the company line” by specific scrutiny of its linear non-conformity really misses the mark and the full experience in my view.
As far as ROBOCOP, well,as I say, Aronofsky is essential, period.
Nick Plowman said,
July 25, 2008 at 3:50 pm
My fave Aronofsky film is “Requiem for a Dream,” then “The Fountain” which I saw recently, then “Pi.”
He is a great, visceral, poetic filmmaker, and I hope “RoboCop” gets him more recognition [of the good variety].
Mike M said,
July 25, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Requiem for a Dream, is a top movie, brilliant
Nick Plowman said,
July 25, 2008 at 5:45 pm
That’s true, and I think when we both watched it the first time it flew straight over our heads, its a hell of a lot to digest for 10, or 11 year olds.
Justin said,
July 25, 2008 at 8:30 pm
I find Robocop so lame, to be honest.
Nick Plowman said,
July 25, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Me too. But if its Aronofsky, I’m interested.
Mike M said,
July 26, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Judah Friedlander, woo
Nick Plowman said,
July 26, 2008 at 8:01 pm
That I would totally pay to see….he’s crazy. I miss him.
Craig Kennedy said,
July 27, 2008 at 4:02 am
Bring it.
Nick Plowman said,
July 27, 2008 at 8:59 am
And I think that is exactly what Aronofsky will do, I’m counting on it.
Rick Olson said,
July 28, 2008 at 8:25 pm
One of the most weird directorial pairings since Alfonso Cuaron made a Harry Potter. Here’s hoping it turns out as well.
Nick Plowman said,
July 28, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Yeah it’s odd, all the greats are odd, and let’s just hope the odds work in Aronofsky’s favour ;)