Robocop Screenwriter Says Darren Aronofsky Is Still Attached

We've heard a lot of back and forth about MGM's proposed Robocop remake, most of which is has to do with whether Darren Aronofsky, the director originally hired to tackle the film, is still part of the project. The last official word, in late summer '09, was that Aronosky was still part of the project, but since then there has been a lot of rumor that he has walked away. Now the David Self, film's writer, says the director is still attached.

First, a brief timeline. MGM really wants (or wanted) a Robocop remake/reboot for 2011. Aronofsky was hired. But the development took time and the studio got into money trouble. Aronosfky went to direct Black Swan, and in the meantime rumors circulated that there was contention about what Robocop should be. Reportedly, Aronofsky wants a serious, hard-R version, which worries the studio. He wants a high-budget picture, which seems like a real risk. And MGM wants a 3D film, which Aronofsky doesn't want to do. None of which is from the mouth of MGM or Darren Aronofsky, mind you — that's all informed sourcing and some speculation.

Now screenwriter David Self tells STYD that, yes, the film is a reboot, and yes he and Aronofsky are still a part of it...providing they can come to terms with MGM.

I'm still involved with it and Darren Aronofsky's still involved with it. He's making another movie right now (Black Swan), but we're waiting for MGM, to sort things out since they're a large corporation and it's a situation where we have to be practical. We're waiting to continue with them, we hope that that happens soon and we can get back to it soon.

Which could easily be read as confirmation of all of the above rumor and informed speculation. Given the state that MGM is in right now, the question may be moot. Until the studio gets its financial status sorted out, will it be in any position to make a $100m movie?