We’ve now come to accept that David Fincher is likely never to make a film adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic adventure novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, although it has been publicised relentlessly. Fincher never seemed to be able to get past the casting obstacles; his first choice for the leading role (sailor Ned Land) was Brad Pitt, but he passed. He then wanted Channing Tatum, but he too was unavailable. Eventually after all of these setbacks and disagreements with executives, the project fell under. Fortunately for Jules Verne fans, the book looks like it will be getting an adaptation, with Bryan Singer to helm.
Today, Singer posted on Instagram a photo of a finished script of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Singer gets a “story by” credit, with the main writing credits going to Rick Sordelet (Dan in Real Life) and Dan Studney (Jack the Giant Slayer). He says in the caption: “A story I’ve wanted to retell since childhood. I promise this will be an epic and emotional adventure for all ages! An adventure very dear to my heart.”
The book’s original story follows a marine biologist who finds himself on board an incredibly advanced submarine called Nautilus. Along with crazy captain Nemo, together they travel under the sea for a distance of 20,000 leagues. The most famous adaptation of the book to date is 1954’s version starring Kirk Douglas as the lead sailor. The film was directed by Richard Fleischer, and was one of the earliest examples of the “steampunk genre”.
Ayden Walker – @walkaydenwalk.
Source: Collider
