We have to admit, given how long this movie has been kicking around in development, we've been wary of any news. Indeed, the last we heard anything about the movie was in the spring when Hugh Jackman — who was originally attached over two years ago when Antoine Fuqua was going to direct — came back on board, with "Incendies" helmer Denis Villeneuve behind the camara with promises of a November 2013 release. And then nothing. But it looks like the wheels are in motion as another talent has come on board.
The always formidable Melissa Leo has joined the film, which certainly keeps our interest high in this one. Written by Aaron Guzikowski (“Contraband”), the Black List script revolves around a small-town carpenter named Keller (Jackman) whose young daughter and best friend are kidnapped. After the cops fail to find them, Keller takes the law into his own hands, but in the process runs up against the big city detective assigned to the case. No word yet on who Leo will play — one of the detectives? — but hopefully we'll find out soon. Also, Variety's report fails to make mentoin of Villeneuve at all, but we hope he's still on board. Then again, he's got "The Darling" brewing with Jessica Chastain attached so who knows if there is a scheduling clash (or even if that movie is moving forward).
Anyhow, the plan right now is start shooting early next year once Jackman is done with "The Wolverine" and hopefully this movie that was churning for a while, finally gets out of the starting gate.