This is an odd marriage if we’ve ever seen one. Rob Marshall (“Chicago,” “Nine”) is set to be named the director for the fourth movie in Disney’s never-ending “Pirates of the Caribbean” saga. Assuming this is declared in a timely manner, the movie is aiming towards a 2010 production start with Johnny Depp to return as the eyeliner heavy Captain Jack Sparrow.
‘Pirates 4’ hasn’t had a director since Gore Verbinski left earlier this year to work on the movie adaptation of the videogame “Bioshock,” which has since lost steam. Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney have been searching for someone to take over their $2.6 billion baby ever since.
Marshall’s recruitment also seemingly puts Disney’s plans back on track with production on “The Lone Ranger,” set to follow soon after ‘Pirates.’ What this all means for Depp’s reunion with Tim Burton on “Dark Shadows” though, we’re not quite sure but perhaps, if it’s still on, ‘Shadows’ may shoot before or between the two Disney projects.
Even if a fourth (or a second or third for that matter) ‘Pirates’ probably isn’t necessary, this is sure to be a big money maker for all involved. Now with an Oscar-winning director on board, Disney is surely seeing dollar signs and loving every minute of it. [BFDealMemo] – Beau Delmore