I'm still fuming over Universal's proposed "reimagining" of MOBY DICK (from the writers who brought you ACCEPTED and NEW YORK MINUTE!), but the studio redeemed itself overnight by announcing their intention to bankroll Shane Black's return to directing. I'll live with what sounds like a glorified ORCA remake if it means I get more Black.
Interestingly, Black is not (currently) claiming a writing credit on COLD WARRIOR. Not to worry: the screenplay was written by Chuck Mondry, who's writing partners with Anthony Bagarozzi, who co-wrote the uproarious NICE GUYS with Black (Bagarozzi's also serving as a producer on COLD WARRIOR). Sounds like this one is all in the Black family, which means it's got a better-than-average chance at making my top ten list for 2009.
According to Variety, the narrative concerns an old-school Cold War spy who's brought out of retirement (despite being too old for this shit) to thwart a terrorist threat from the new Russia. Of course, this crotchety old spook is forced to partner with a (brash/inexperienced/imbecilic) young agent. Profane squabbling ensues. I wonder if it's set during Christmas.
Michelle Manning and David Greenblatt are also producing.
Note to Variety: you might want to change that whole "[Black] took a break from the biz after penning 1998’s fourth installment of the LETHAL WEAPON franchise" before the once-and-future spec king torches your building. He is quite proud of not writing that particular movie.
