The classic movie musical GUYS AND DOLLS is getting a remake now that Fox has finally won the rights. After the classic version starring Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra was a hit in 1955, there has not been a big screen version but countless stage productions. Deadline is reporting that the studio is looking at Channing Tatum and Joseph Gordon-Levitt to star in the new version of the gangster drama.
Here is the synopsis for those of you unfamiliar with the story:
Nathan Detroit (Sinatra) has a town full of captive gamblers and wants to set up a floating crap game but needs money to do it. He bets his pal Sky Masterson (Brando) that Sky can’t get the wholesome Sarah Brown (Jean Simmons)—who runs a mission—to go with him to Havana.
The remake has been attempted for years with Vin Diesel and Hugh Jackman previously tied to it. But, the widow of writer Frank Loesser never granted the rights until now. Tatum and Gordon-Levitt both showed their dancing skills at this year’s Academy Awards and have attempted singing as well. GUYS AND DOLLS has a lot of dance numbers which would put these two to the test. For me, I am generally indifferent to musicals like this due to the weakness of films like CHICAGO and ROCK OF AGES. If the producers and directors can mount something a little more unique, this may be an interesting project to watch.