David O. Russell Has Exited Pride and Prejudice and Zombies« FirstShowing.net

Though we've heard about his involvement with the adaptation ofSeth Grahame-Smith novel remixPride and Prejudice and Zombiessincelast December, it looks like directorDavid O. Russellhas now departed the project.Vulturehas new news which pegs his departure from an issue with scheduling. Star and producer Natalie Portman couldn't meet the proposed start date, so Russell has moved on to direct thepreviously reportedfilmOld St. Louiswith Vince Vaughn instead. However, scheduling issues have made a previous casting addition null and void, but allowed for a once rumored actress to step in. Details below.

Old St. Louisfollows a traveling salesman (Vaughn), who has been an absentee father, and the changes in his life when his daughter becomes part of his new life. Previously, we'd heardScarlett Johanssonwouldtake the role of Vaughn's secretarywho accompanies him and his daughter on a cross-country sales trip. However, the sudden bump up in the start of production will keep her out of the project. However, the earlier shoot dates will now allowChloe Moretz, who had to pass on the project previously, to take the role of Vaughn's daughter.

Personally, I would've much rather seen Russell tacklePride and Prejudice and Zombiesif only because it would've been something completely different for the filmmaker. This likely reduces the chances of Russelldirecting the Jim CarreycomedyUnder Coveras well. The real question now though is whetherPride and Prejudice and Zombiesis dead in the water, or if another director will quickly be found to take up the adaptation.Anyone else disappointed?

Source