Breck Eisner Directing 'Escape from New York'

I rather enjoyed The Crazies for what it was, and director Breck Eisner is being rewarded by being given the keys to Escape from New York. Before we delve into what actor will or should play Snake Plissken, let's hit up some of the details on this deal. Heat Vision recalls that New Line was hot and bothered to get this movie made three years ago with Gerard Butler in the starring role, although the script has changed since the original announcement. Now handled by Allan Loeb (Money Never Sleeps), the screenplay "tries to mix an origin story for [Plissken] and merge it with the story of the 1981 original." Some things won't change; Plissken is contractually bound to be "a bad-ass," otherwise John Carpenter wouldn't have agreed to have the film remade. You would have to think the movie will open in 2011 since a script is locked in and a director has been hired. There's plenty of time to shoot in 2010 while there's still momentum for the project. But who will put on Kurt Russell's eyepatch? When I read that Eisner was directing, I immediately leaped to Timothy Olyphant, the lead in The Crazies. He was also effective in Hitman but doesn't quite have that signature role yet. As much as I know Gerard Butler has his fans and could do a good job...I'm kind of rooting for Olyphant here. He hasn't been mentioned as a possibility or anything but I think he'd bring a bit more sarcasm to the role than Butler and has a more worn-down look than King Leonidas. Just a suggestion. There was also a rumor some time ago that Josh Brolin might be a candidate. What are your thoughts?

Comments

[KarenAnn]

Gerard Butler, could pull this off. His Scottish brogue lends an extra manliness to any role. I think he would do well. His stunt work is impressive.

[rorschach]

Russel Crowe would probably be above their budget but Jeffrey Dean Morgan seems to have the '5 o'clock shadow look down'. Worst fear? Studio wanting someone like Taylor lautner... They'd save more money on a card board cut out...more talent too.