Now that we've all had enough time to get used to the idea that Spielberg is about to remake one of the most respected films in history, maybe it will help a little to know that it might star Robert Downey Jr. According to the LA Times' Hero Complex blog, the announcement is imminent that Downey will be starring in Spielberg's update of the classic film, which marks a change from some of the other names that had been attached, including the obvious heir apparent to Jimmy Stewart (and long time Spielberg cohort) Tom Hanks and Will Smith.Harvey was the story of a gentle soul by the name of Elwood P. Dowd, and his best friend, who happens to be an invisible six-foot rabbit named Harvey. The original play won the Pulitzer Prize, but most of us probably remember the 1950 film starring Jimmy Stewart as Dowd. News of the remake hit back in August, and according to Complex, during a set visit to Iron Man 2, "the actor spoke with affection and awe about the late Stewart's nuanced timing and camera sense."
A first draft of the script has already been completed by Jonathan Tropper, but according to Complex, "Downey is waiting for a new draft of the script, but I've heard from several informed sources that it looks strong". Downey is currently still filming the R-rated comedy Due Date with Jamie Foxx and Zach Galifianakis down in Atlanta, and there had been some talk that he was linked to star in a biopic about Hugh Hefner (with the blessings of the man himself), but maybe Downey's more interested in a different kind of bunny.
Personally, I think Downey would do a great job playing Elwood, since he has the right combination of being lovable while remaining a little off-center, which could be a nice antidote to Spielberg's tendency to sugar-coat -- don't you think?
1. My school put on this play. Not only is it hilarious, but Downey is possibly my dream pick for the role. I get the feeling he could make this a sleeper hit.
Posted at 8:53PM on Oct 1st 2009 by Trevor