Anyone remember the 1984 classic film Firestarter? If not, here’s a brief description. The plot concerns a young girl who develops pyrokinesis and the secret government agency known as The Shop which seeks to control her. The film was directed by Mark L. Lester, and stars David Keith, Drew Barrymore, Martin Sheen and George C. Scott. The girl’s father (Keith) also has special mind controlling powers except they give him nose bleeds when he uses them.
The movie itself was not a hit in theaters at all. It cost $15 million to make and barely broke even. However, the movie’s gone on to amass a pretty big following ever since its inception hence the desire for a remake to occur. Deadline reports that Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions have opted to make Firestarter the latest classic King project to receive the remake treatment. Directing the remake will be Oscar-winning screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, helming only his third feature.
Goldsman won his Oscar for writing 2001’s A Beautiful Mind, but also has on his resume such failures as Batman & Robin and the recent Rings. Still, he’s also written warmly received films like I Am Legend, and A Time to Kill.
Essentially we’re looking at a hit or miss here. I think Firestarter is ripe for a remake for this time and place in film Whether or not Goldsman can pull it off is the question. Also, finding the right young girl for the lead is going to be crucial here. I think the Fanning clan is probably too old. What about the girl from Logan?
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