Looks like Sony’s remake of the Robin Williams classic JUMANJI is closer than ever to becoming a reality. According to Variety, actors Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart are in early talks to join the project, who have most recently worked together on the upcoming action/comedy flick, CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE.
The details are still being worked out, and the studios will have a heck of a time working out the schedules between the two, as they both appear to be popping up in every film property under the sun. In addition to the upcoming BAYWATCH comedy, the Rock is attached to RAMPAGE, FAST & FURIOUS 8, and the HBO series, BALLERS. Kevin Hart, on the other hand, has THE UNTOUCHABLES and his own stand-up work to squeeze in between films.
JUMANJI is a film that’s been ripe for a remake for quite some time now. For those unfamiliar, the original film followed a pair of siblings who stumble upon a board game. While playing, they inadvertently free a man named Alan, who had apparently been stuck in the game for decades. Unfortunately, with every move they make on the board, another danger is unleashed upon them in the real world, and the only way they can win the game is if they keep playing.
It was an action-packed adventure for kids in the 1990s, and since then, a film with a similar premise, ZATHURA, was made and met with critical praise. However, the actual production of a remake has been slow-going. Perhaps with the Rock and Hart hopping on board, the project can get some actual momentum.
While many scoff at the notion of remakes of beloved properties, this is one that is probably a good fit, as the technology to make the film as adventurous as it needs to be — not to mention the fact that it’s been over 20 years since the original film was made.
The film is set to be directed by Jake Kasdan, who’s perhaps best known for his comedy work in films like WALK HARD and BAD TEACHER. The script is written by Scott Rosenberg and Jeff Pinkner, both of whom recently came off the James Patterson TV series, ZOO. Principal photography is slated to begin this August.
What are your thoughts on the Rock and Hart potentially joining a JUMANJI remake? Let us know your thoughts down below!
The film is slated to hit theaters on July 28, 2017.
CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE hits theaters on June 17, 2016.
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SOURCE: Variety