Ever since David O. Russell left the director’s chair on the Natalie Portman-produced “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies,” a number of names have been linked as contenders to helm the film including Mike Newell (“Prince Of Persia: The Sands of Time”), Neil Marshall (“Centurion”), David Slade (“The Twilight Saga: Eclipse”), Jonathan Demme, Matt Reeves, Mike White (“Year Of The Dog”) and the directing duo Phil Lord and Chris Miller (“Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs“). It’s a strong list of names but it appears the unlikeliest contender has taken the pole position in landing the gig.
The LA Times reports that Matt Reeves is apparently out of the running and that Mike White is looking like the favorite right now to direct the project. We have to say, we’re a bit surprised. White is probably best known as a writer (“School of Rock,” “Orange County, “Chuck & Buck“) and his lone directorial outing, “The Year Of The Dog,” was a bit of a non-starter. Moreover, while he may have the chops to nail the material’s comedic tone — apparently a leading reason why he’s being eyed to direct — he’s fairly untested in action and special effects, which the project will certainly have a fair share of.
The project is looking to get in front of cameras next spring and while no cast has been announced, early names being tossed around have included Bradley Cooper, Scarlett Johansson, Mia Wasikowska, Tilda Swinton and Catherine O’Hara. We think the source material could lead to a very fun film, but have to admit we would be less than enthused with White behind the camera. Of the names mentioned so far, the only choice we really liked, Matt Reeves, seems no longer to be an option. Here’s hoping he finds his way back to the table.