Warner Bros.’ The Jungle Book took a hit last month when Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu dropped out over scheduling conflicts, but now it’s back on track with a new director. Ron Howard has entered talks to helm the live-action adaptation of the Rudyard Kipling adventure.
THR reported the news. The Warner Bros. picture is one of two Jungle Book films in the works. Disney’s live-action adaptation has Jon Favreau at the helm, and is set to open October 9, 2015. Warner Bros.’ Jungle Book does not have a release date yet, and it might not for some time — it’s unclear whether Howard would make Jungle Book his next film if he closes the deal.
Ron Howard directing a version of The Jungle Book is interesting and all, but let me requote a part of that again in case you missed it (emphasis mine):
The Warner Bros. picture is one of two Jungle Book films in the works.
Come on! Really?!? I don’t even want to live on this planet anymore.