Sofia Coppola is in negotiations to direct a new version of "The Little Mermaid."
Variety is reporting that the director could helm the film for Working Title and Universal. Caroline Thompson rewrote the script with previous drafts written by Abi Morgan and Kelly Marcel.
Not much is known about how the Hans Christian Anderson novel will be adapted. The original novel tells the story of a mermaid who wished to become human after falling in love with a man she saved from drowning.
While Disney famously adapted the story in an animated version for children, it is likely that Coppola could give the movie a darker tone. The director is known for her serious and heavy films, such as "The Virgin Suicides," which tells the story of a group of male friends who become obsessed with five mysterious sisters who are sheltered by their strict, religious parents.
Her most famous movie to date was "Lost in Translation," which won an Oscar and told the story of a faded movie star and a neglected young woman who form an unlikely bond after crossing paths in Tokyo.
Coppola also directed "Somewhere," and "The Bling Ring," which told the story of a group of fame-obsessed teenagers who used the Internet to track celebrities' whereabouts in order to rob their homes.
All four of those films were rated R and were not the most commercially viable movies.
Her most accessible movie to date has been "Marie Antoinette" which was rated PG-13. However, Coppola famously gave the movie a modern twist using rock music, gaining a mixed reception.
Judging from the five films the Coppola has made, it seems odd that she would take on a big budget special effects driven film. Additionally, it will be surprising if she gives it a child-friendly or positive spin.
The producers behind the film are also known for their serious films. In particular, Working Title has produced "Rush," "Atonement" and "Les Miserables." Original writer Marcel wrote "Fifty Shade of Grey," while Morgan wrote "Shame" and "The Iron Lady."
However, with Thompson rewriting the film, that could be a sign of the direction that the studio is moving towards. Thompson has written lighter fare that includes animated films including "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and "Corpse Bride."
Additionally, many directors have been known for experimenting in different genres. Martin Scorsese, who had never made a PG film in his career, directed "Hugo" in 2011 for his daughter. Steven Spielberg also adapted "War Horse" based on a children's book.
Given the recent trend, Coppola may want to make a film for her children and therefore may make it a lighter piece.
Deadline is reporting that Working Title is planning to move quickly with "The Little Mermaid." Joe Wright was originally eyeing to direct it but left production to helm "Pan" for Warner Bros.
Working Title is currently making "Everest" starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Josh Brolin before moving into production for the Anderson adaptation.
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