The live-action remake train keeps on chugging along for Disney. With massive successes like “The Jungle Book” and “Beauty and the Beast” combined with what is sure to be more blockbusters in “The Lion King” and “Dumbo,” it’s obvious that the Mouse House has discovered that simply remaking their popular animated classics in live-action reaps big rewards. And with casting now underway, it appears that “Pinocchio” is next on their list.
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We’ve already known that Paul King, the man behind the popular “Paddington” films, has been hired to helm the remake of the classic tale of a puppet-turned-boy. But THR is now reporting that we know who’s going to be the man who creates the titular character.
Tom Hanks, everyone’s favorite actor, is now in talks to play the coveted role of Geppetto in the upcoming remake. For those that were somehow not raised on Disney animated films, “Pinocchio” tells the story of a woodcarver named Geppetto that builds a new puppet, Pinocchio, that is brought to life thanks to a fairy. From there, Pinocchio attempts to become a real boy by showing bravery with the help of his pal Jiminy Cricket. Hijinks ensue.
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Interestingly enough, Disney’s live-action remake isn’t the only version of “Pinocchio” currently in development. Much like “The Jungle Book” and “Mowgli,” there are two versions of the classic “Pinocchio” story being produced. Guillermo del Toro has teamed up with Netflix for a non-Disney version of the story that will utilize stop-motion versus the mixture of live-action and CGI that King’s version will use.
There’s still no release date for Disney’s remake but it is being reported that the studio would like production to begin in late May of 2019. That would put a 2020 release in mind.