The "Dallas" feature is no longer galloping to the starting gate. New Regency’s adaptation of the popular 1970s TV sudser was set to start shooting in November but has been put on hold as the movie is rebooted. The decision has been made to scrap the pic’s cast with the exception of John Travolta, who’s still set to star as J.R. Ewing, the sly schemer of the dripping-rich, dysfunctional family. Helmer Gurinder Chadha ("Bend It Like Beckham"), who took over the reins in April, is still attached but will make her final decision as to whether she’ll direct the pic when the new cast comes together. Robert Harling’s script may be tweaked, but a major overhaul is not planned. Luke Wilson, who was cast as Bobby Ewing, has a pay-or-play deal that’s up in January but is no longer in the cast. Also out is Shirley MacLaine, who was to play Miss Ellie. And talks have broken off with Meg Ryan, whom New Regency wanted for the role of boozy Sue Ellen. Jennifer Lopez was originally attached to play that role but dropped out in August. The hope is to recast the pic and begin shooting as early as January.
Variety
If and when it is finally made, it will so be a Razzie nom.
