With two mega-hit "The Hangover" movies under his belt, Todd Phillips is a man who has options. And if you remember, back in Feburary, it was reported that he was eyeing four different projects for his next directorial gig after "The Hangover Part III." Well, it looks like one of them is beginning to move forward.
Deadline reports that the rather surprising choice of Jay and Mark Duplass have been hired to write the script for Phillips to direct. That said, the concept does boast two things Phillips has enjoyed lately: the open road and drugs. The project is titled "Mule," and is based on the book by Tony D'Souza that tells the story of a young couple who turn to trafficking marijuana for money when the are hit with the double whammy of an unexpected pregnancy and a downturn in the economy.
So are the Duplass Bros. going mainstream or is Phillips going indie? Actually, this sounds like the kind of material that can fit right in the middle of both — it seems broadly appealing yet also carrying a deeper resonance. Essentially, pretty much the path the Duplass' guys have been working towards with their last couple films "Cyrus" and the (undeservedly slept on) "Jeff, Who Lives At Home." The material feels almost too easy for Phillips at first glance, but we're sure the Duplass dudes will bring a different flair and tone to the piece, which should make it an intriguing choice for the director.
But until this gears up, Phillips won't be lacking in things to do. Of course, the next 'Hangover' movie will start shooting soon and he's also producing the remake of the Danish comedy "Clown" for Danny McBride, who will be writing and starring in the flick.
