‘Footloose’ Remake Finds A Director

Not many people are fans of “reboot” news these days. Considering things like Real Genius and Laverne & Shirley are getting rebooted, it’s almost a wonder if anything good that can be called a “reboot” is in the works. That brings us to the pending remake of 1984’s Footloose.

Originally set for High School Musical director Kenny Ortega, he ended up backing out just five months before production was set to start over budget constraints and creative differences. Now, according to Variety, things seem to be back on track with the hiring of a new director.

Paramount’s redo of “Footloose” is back on course, with Craig Brewer set to direct the high-profile project from his rewritten script. However, Brewer will have to find a new lead now that Chace Crawford is exiting the project due to scheduling conflicts with the CW’s “Gossip Girl.” Par insiders said Monday that casting will commence immediately. Studio intends for Brewer to begin lensing this summer.

President of production Adam Goodman has stated that he wants a new and edgier remake, which should be what he’ll get by hiring Brewer, who’s previous films include Hustle & Flow and Black Snake Moan.