In the early ‘90s, director Alex Proyas was set to make his feature film debut on the film “The Crow,” based on a little unknown indie comic book. He signed up-and-coming star Brandon Lee to take the lead as Eric Draven, a dead musician brought back to life to avenge the murder of his girlfriend. “The Crow” was supposed to be the big launching pad for both Proyas and Lee. Unfortunately, that didn’t completely work out, as Brandon Lee was tragically killed during an on-set accident. However, the film has become a bit of a cult classic, and as Hollywood tends to do with anything remotely popular from 20 years ago, “The Crow” is about to get a reboot.
That is, unless Alex Proyas has anything to say about it.
In a lengthy Facebook post, Proyas presents his case for what a reboot of “The Crow” is a bad idea. Why? Well, as Proyas explains quite well, the popularity of the film has less to do with the intellectual property and more to do with the incredible work from Brandon Lee.
“ ’The Crow’ would not be a movie worth ‘remaking’ if it wasn’t for Brandon Lee. If it wasn’t for Brandon you may never have even heard of this poignant little underground comic. It is Brandon’s movie. I believe it is a special case where Hollywood should just let it remain a testament to a man’s immense talent and ultimate sacrifice – and not have others re-write that story or add to it. I know sequels were made, and TV shows, and what have you, but the notion of ‘rebooting’ this story, and the original character – a character Brandon gave life to at too high a cost – seems wrong to me. Please let this remain Brandon’s film,” says Proyas.
Of course, we’re talking about a potential big-time franchise in a world where franchises are king. So, the possibility of a studio shutting down production after that plea is highly unlikely. Especially when you have Jason Momoa set to star, and whose profile is only getting bigger.
What’s interesting about this upcoming reboot is the drama that seems to surround it. For the past decade or so, there has been a revolving door of directors and stars attached, with names like Mark Wahlberg, Bradley Cooper, Channing Tatum, and Ryan Gosling all rumored for the title role. Now, production is about to begin with Momoa starring and newcomer Corin Hardy set to direct, and it looks like audiences might actually get to see the film, now titled “The Crow Reborn.”
Should “The Crow” have been left alone? We’ll find out if and when ‘Reborn’ actually sees the light of day.
WHY I THINK THE CROW SHOULD NOT BE REMADEI was privileged to know Brandon Lee – he was a young, immensely gifted actor…
Posted by Alex Proyas on Sunday, December 3, 2017