Universal Selects New ‘Bioshock’ Director

Every since it was released on video game consoles all over the world, everyone has been wondering when a movie based on ‘Bioshock’ would be made.   After Gore Verbinski signed on then dropped out due to scheduling conflicts with his animated film, ‘Rango,’ everyone has been wondering who would replace him.   Well, that wait is over according to Variety.   They are claiming Universal is close to signing a deal with ’28 Weeks Later…’ helmer Juan Carlos Fresnadillo to step in as ‘Bioshock’s director.

If this news ends up being accurate and a deal is signed, Fresnadillo’s stroke in Hollywood will skyrocket practically overnight.   He garnered some attention with his stylistic thriller ‘Intacto’ in 2001, and he gained even more fans after turning in a worthy sequel to ’28 Days Later…’.   Some even claim his sequel to the Danny Boyle-directed film is better than its predecessor.

With Fresnadillo close to signing a deal in a high-profile project, it is looking like Hollywood’s claim on up and coming Spanish directors is ever-growing.   With Guillermo Del Toro, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, and Alfonso Cuaron already launching their respective careers in Hollywood, the importing of directors from Spanish-speaking countries seems to be an ideal choice.

Universal, who is bound and determined not to have a ‘Halo’-style project on their hands, is looking to get ‘Bioshock’ made come hell or high water, no pun intended.   The film was initially put on the back-burner after its budget escalated to past $160 million.   With negotiations with Fresnadillo fully underway, it is looking like the studio is making every attempt to get this one done.