By David Poland poland@moviecitynews.com
Anderson, Zucker and Woo?
Looks like Paul Thomas Anderson hasn’t heard the last of the comparisons between he and Martin Scorsese. Just when the GoodFellas/Boogie Nights link is disappearing, PT (as he’s now known about town) may be hooking up with Robert Evans (the producer on whom Dustin Hoffman based his Wag The Dog character) and Jack Nicholson (one of Evans’ very best friends) to make a feature. It’s the story of an eighth-generation Native American who decides he’s ready to take on Vegas with his reservation casinos. That would be Jack. I, for one, would look forward to any movie about Native Americans that’s not exclusively about being Native American. The sequel could be about the guy getting into Pro Football. Cowboys, and … you get it!
Ghost made us believe that Patrick Swayze could act. First Knight brought us a sixtysomething Arthur, a fortysomething Lancelot and a twentysomething Guinevere, but not many believed that. (I liked it! I admit it! I liked it! I’m so embarrassed!) Now, director Jerry Zucker is giving us A Course In Miracles, which follows a young priest who has lost his way on a trip around the world to investigate claims of miracles. I wonder if he reaffirms his faith? Me, I’m looking forward to the lawsuit from the ever peaceful Marianne Williamson, who wrote the eponymous smash hit book of the same title. The problem? The book is not the basis for the movie and this will wreak havoc with any book deal she may have simmering.
A Hollywood Conversation: “The guy who made Face/Off just made a first look deal with TriStar Pictures.” “Woo.” “Yeah, I’m happy too. What’s the guy’s name?” “Woo.” “No, the guy who made Face/Off.” “Woo.” “Yeah. I liked it too. And that other movie.” “Killer.” “Yeah. The best. But what was it called?” “Killer.” “Okay, so don’t tell me! I hear he’s producing.” “The Big Hit.” “I guess so. The guy can’t miss. But, what’s his name?” “Woo.” “Woo directed The Big Hit?” “Exec Produced.” “But who made Face/Off?” “Woo.” “The director?” “Yeah.”