Action fans who have been waiting for more news regarding two of New Line’s major upcoming projects — specifically, the Gears of War adaptation and the Escape from New York remake — get a double shot of rumor juice with this item. According to IESB, the studio is close to announcing who will be behind the lens for both films, and a “reliable insider” has shared the scoop.
Ready to find out? Okay, here goes: Gears of War, the adaptation of the popular X360 game, will be helmed by Underworld and Underworld: Evolution director Len Wiseman. Meanwhile, duties for the Escape from New York remake, starring Gerard Butler as Snake Plikssen, will be handled by…Live Free or Die Hard director Len Wiseman.
No, that was not a typo. Do not adjust your sets at home. If IESB‘s anonymous source is to be trusted, Wiseman will end up behind the camera for both projects.
Thus far, reaction to both projects has been rather lukewarm; videogame adaptations are always iffy propositions at best, and there are plenty of people who don’t see the need for an Escape remake. The announcement of Wiseman’s involvement, if it actually comes to pass, could have a polarizing effect — Live Free or Die Hard has earned unexpectedly positive reviews, but the Underworld films haven’t fared as well, and although the director’s obvious love for Michael Bay-style action would be arguably well-suited for both films, it’s bound to concern fans who want more than pithy dialogue and shots of stuff blowing up.
For now, this is just a rumor, but if the article’s on target, it’s a rumor that should be proven or debunked relatively quickly.
Source: IESB.net
