It was recently announced that Universal and Blumhouse would be teaming up on a remake of the 1933 Universal horror film The Invisible Man with Upgrade’s Leigh Whannell writing and directing this new incarnation. That movie, of course, is based on the original novel by science fiction author H.G. Wells.
Variety now reports that actress Elisabeth Moss (The Handmaid’s Tale) is circling the female lead role, Moss recently worked with Blumhouse on Jordan Peele’s Get Out follow up Us.
Sources say the negotiations are in the extremely early stages, but if they were to move forward, Moss would star in the film with “Upgrade” filmmaker Leigh Whannell writing and directing. Sources also indicate that Johnny Depp, who was originally tapped to play the title character, will not be involved.
Casting this early would suggest that they plan on getting cameras rolling sometime this year possibly by this summer or fall.
Leigh Whannell is also reportedly rewriting 20th Century Fox’s remake of John Carpenter’s Escape From New York and might direct that as well.
Johnny Depp had been originally cast in the leading role but it’s unlikely he’ll end up staying on to the project, even if there has been chatter that Universal might find another role for him. Variety indicates Depp is no longer involved with the film.
Universal has yet to officially announce a release date for The Invisible Man.
SOURCE: VARIETY
