Hey, everyone. "Moriarty" here with some Rumblings From The Lab.
I imagine you'll see a number of headlines that reduce this story to one person stepping aside and another taking over a film, and it's easy enough to do so. I think there's something a little more than just the headline, though.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Simon Wells has been diagnosed as "suffering from severe exhaustion," and with only 18 days to go before finishing the film, he's had to step aside. DreamWorks was able to bring Gore Verbinski in to finish physical production on the picture, and the plan they're stating right now is to hand the film back to Wells when he's finished with his two weeks of prescribed rest.
To me, this isn't just a simple substitution. This is a prime example of exactly why DreamWorks is proving to be such a major, major player year in and year out right now, both critically and commercially. They're a team. I'm impressed by the people I've dealt with at DreamWorks, whether they be reps for films or TV or animation. The relationships they cultivate with filmmakers are long-lasting, and Verbinski's a perfect example of that. I'm sure DreamWorks is going to remember this when they're working with Verbinski on the (hopefully) upcoming CATCH ME IF YOU CAN.
Anyway... after having to reshoot all of Samantha Mumba's footage at the insistence of Spielberg and this new development, I would imagine it's a rough set to be on. Here's hoping the end product is worth the effort for all involved, and here's hoping Wells returns to the production rested and ready to take his film all the way to release. It's always tricky making the transition from animation to live-action. I've heard some truly amazing stories about Rob Minkoff's baptism by fire on the set of STUART LITTLE.
After working so hard, it would be a shame if Wells wasn't able to finish the show the way he wants. We certainly wish him well.
"Moriarty" out.
