A remake of Victor Fleming’s cinematic classic “The Wizard of Oz” is coming to the big screen with Nicole Kassell at the helm.
The “Watchmen” director is teaming with Temple Hill and New Line for the task, although no details were provided as to who would step into Judy Garland’s ruby-red slippers as Dorothy.
Ms. Kassell said in a statement that she is “incredibly honored” to be trusted with an adaptation of author L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
“While the 1939 musical is part of my DNA, I am exhilarated and humbled by the responsibility of re-imagining such a legendary tale,” she said, Variety reported. “The opportunity to examine the original themes — the quest for courage, love, wisdom and home — feels more timely and urgent than ever.”
The director, who also has “Westworld” and “The Americans” credits to her name, quickly noted the intense scrutiny she’ll face leading up to the project’s release.
“These are profoundly iconic shoes to fill, and I am eager to dance alongside these heroes of my childhood as we pave a newly minted yellow brick road!” she said.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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