Last month, we were bummed to hear that Universal Pictures had decided to push back production on The Dark Tower until February due to budget issues.
Then last week, we were bummed yet again to hear that the film’s script was being rewritten AND that director Ron Howard was reportedly considering bailing on the project.
It was beginning to seem like Dark Tower may be doomed, but Ron Howard has spoken up about the project, and based on what he’s saying now, it sounds like the project is still very much a go!
Here’s Ron on the film’s delays:
“The first version represented a bold attempt to fast track, because of weather concerns. It was a little more dramatic to people on the outside than to us. We├óΓé¼Γäód have liked to move forward on that fast track, but it was always Phase One. There was an understanding that if we couldn├óΓé¼Γäót answer all the questions in a way that made sense to all the partners involved, then we would operate on a slightly more traditional timetable. Even if we go in March, that├óΓé¼Γäós still moving quickly for something of this scale.”
And here’s Ron on whether or not Javier Bardem is attached to play the main character Roland Deschain:
“Nobody is pay or play but he has said he wants to do it. We├óΓé¼Γäóve spent a lot of time together. He├óΓé¼Γäós fascinated by the character and has great instincts for Roland. I├óΓé¼Γäóm hoping when we go, he├óΓé¼Γäós available and will join us.”
Whoa! Wait a sec! We thought it was a done deal with Javier! We REALLY hope he ends up taking on the role! He’d be perfect!
Are U relieved to hear that The Dark Tower is NOT dead? Are U pleased that director Ron Howard will be sticking with the project?
[Images via WENN & Amazon.com]