Years ago, Tim Burton tugged at our heart strings with Big Fish, leaving an impression that he had stepped a bit out of his comfort zone to deliver something wholly wonderful, and one of the best films of the last decade. Unfortunately, he has since recoiled back into his safety net with refurbished mediocrity like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Alice in Wonderland.
Lo and behold, the trend continues as the director “is interested” in an update of Victor Hugo’s classic The Hunchback of Notre Dame, starring Josh Brolin (who will also produce) as the deformed recluse, Quasimodo [THR]. As THR notes, all of Burton’s favorite elements seem to be at play in the material – gothic setting, flamboyant costumes and a characteristically odd-looking lead. The only thing that holds him up right now is his work on Dark Shadows with Johnny Depp for Warner Bros, who will also back Notre Dame.
Not only am I disappointed in Burton making yet another update, but I can’t help but think he’s retreading ground already covered in Edward Scissorhands. The only thing that sparks any life into the project is Brolin’s involvement, who I hope will start to get some deserved recognition sooner rather than later. It seems like an intriguing role for him to tackle, and Burton would do well to take some time off the Depp train for at least one project.
What are your thoughts on Brolin and Burton teaming up? Are you happy to see Burton do more of the same, or should he change it up?