Yesterday, there was a casting update about a new version of A Christmas Carol that is in the works. Today brings word that another hardy perennial is in the crosshairs of a company looking to craft a new version. In this case, it's The Wizard Of OZ, which New Line has Watchmen director Nicole Kassell on board to oversee.
Frank L. Baum's original book was published in 1900, spawning 13 more tomes and, of course the 1939 musical classic movie. Since then, it has inspired any number of interpretations, from TV shows to comic books and Wicked the musical. While the book is in the public domain, Warner Bros. (New Line's parent) has the advantage of the movie's rights in its library.
What the new direction will turn out to be remains with the man behind the curtain for now, but at least Kassell has the chops to do something interesting with the concept. "I am incredibly honored to join Temple Hill and New Line in bringing this beloved classic to the screen," Kassell says in a statement. "While the 1939 musical is part of my DNA, I am exhilarated and humbled by the responsibility of re-imagining such a legendary tale. The opportunity to examine the original themes—the quest for courage, love, wisdom and home— feels more timely and urgent than ever. These are profoundly iconic shoes to fill, and I am eager to dance alongside these heroes of my childhood as we pave a newly minted yellow brick road."