It's been a while since we had any updates on this one, but Universal's long-gestating The Green Hornet and Kato movie has finally found a director.
According to Deadline, The Invisible Man's Leigh Whannell is in final negotiations to helm the feature. Studio execs have reportedly been meeting with potential directors over the past couple of weeks, but "felt as soon as Whannell threw his name in the mix, he had the edge."
Universal optioned the rights to the iconic character from Amasia, the production banner run by former Marvel Studios President Michael Helfant and Bradley Gallo, back in 2020, and the project has been in the early stages of development since. Very few plot details from David Koepp's script have come to light, but, as the title suggests, Kato is expected to get equal billing and screen-time to Britt Reid.
"Our goal is to make a film that existing fans will love, and new fans will love to discover," said Helfant in a statement at the time. "With Universal, it feels like we are merging the past and the future, creating a contemporary version of the franchise that is fresh and exciting while respecting its long legacy and history." Gallo added: "The confluence of America and Asia is so important. Who better to partner with than a company that has such a major presence on both continents? We also know that Universal will align with our 'film geek' sensibilities and offer up a vision which respects the iconic world of The Green Hornet."
The Green Hornet was previously adapted for the big screen back in 2011 for Sony Pictures' comedic adventure starring Seth Rogen, Cameron Diaz and Jay Chou, but this is expected to be a more serious take on the material.
What do you guys make of this news? Do you think the Green Hornet is due an update, or should he remain a relic of the past? Drop us a comment down below.