Disney Eyeing Will Smith For Live-Action DUMBO Flick

I know what you’re thinking. You love the idea of Dumbo being remade into a live-action movie, but were worried by its serious lack of Will Smith, right? I know. I’m a mind reader. 

In all seriousness, though, Disney’s recent trend in remaking their animated classics for the big screen is one that both elates and frustrates. On one end, it’s hard not to roll your eyes at the laziness inherent in the whole deal. Their properties are so well known that these films are bound to make some kind of profit, not matter how bad. On the other hand, the House of Mouse has already proven with films like Cinderella and The Jungle Book that a lazy idea does not necessarily mean lazy execution. So long as they put great talent both in front of and behind the camera, there’s a good chance they can push out a great flick.

It’s what that mindset that we’re going into the Dumbo film, which is set to be directedby Tim Burton.

Given the large number of movies on Disney’s horizon, this is one that’s sort of gotten lost in the shuffle, but thanks to a report from Deadline, the film’s finally popped up again. According to the outlet, Suicide Squad and Collateral Beauty star Will Smith is being eyed to star in the film. Unfortunately, there are no real details surrounding the film itself, or what Smith’s role would be in the picture. We think it’s safe to assume he won’t be playing Dumbo himself, but should Disney continue with their overly-faithful adaptations, the role of Timothy Q. Mouse seems like a possibility.

The script for Dumbo was written by screenwriter Ehren Kruger, who has a hit-and-miss filmography that includesthe last three Transformers movies, The Ring, Scream 3, and Reindeer Games. Perhaps the real hesitation, however, may come in the form of the director, Tim Burton. This is a filmmaker who has established an entire brand around his style, and as a result, many feel he’s gotten to the point in his career where there are few who are willing to say no to him. While this is all speculation, there is no denying that Burton’s films in the past 10+ years have been a little less than disappointing. What’s worse is that his film Alice in Wonderland was arguably the one that set off this whole live-action remake trend to begin with, and the movie can be held up as what Disney should avoid with their movies in the near future.

In short, we certainly hope the best for this movie, but remain doubtful thanks to the recent work from those filmmakers currently on board. As was proven by the film Suicide Squad, a talented cast alone can only carry a movie so far. We’ll be sure to keep an eye on this movie as it develops.

What do you think of Will Smith potentially joining Dumbo? What role do you think he should play? Let us know in the comments down below!

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SOURCE: Deadline

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