Earlier this week, The Los Angeles Times reported that Mike White was looking like a top contender to take over the reins of Lionsgate’s Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, while a studio source said that Matt Reeves was looking more unlikely. A subsequent report from the LAT, however, says that Neil Marshall is now neck-and-neck in the race with White. Further, says the paper, there’s yet another new name in the mix.
The other director being considered, according to LAT sources, is Jeffrey Blitz, the filmmaker of acclaimed documentary Spellbound and the Anna Kendrick coming-of-age movie Rocket Science.
Per the LAT:
“The job has proved a tricky one for studio Lionsgate and producer Darko Entertainment, which is run by cult director Richard Kelly — it requires a filmmaker who can adroitly handle comedy, genre and period conventions.”
David O. Russell had been on board to direct the movie but shifted gears a couple of weeks ago.
There’s also still the question of cast. Those familiar with the project say Scarlett Johansson, who had previously been reported as in, won’t star in the film. Bradley Cooper is still on board as Darcy, say the LAT sources, but the choice of the director could influence his decision too.
Other casting names tossed around, according to The Playlist, include Mia Wasikowska, Tilda Swinton and Catherine O’Hara.
Lionsgate says a choice is expected soon.
Source: Hollywood Wiretap
