Will Smith has opted not sign up for Disney's upcoming live action remake of "Dumbo." The actor was previously in negotiations with the studio for the lead role, but eventually passed on the project due to various reasons.
According to Deadline, Smith did not commit to the project primarily for two reasons: salary and scheduling. Disney is moving aggressively to begin production for the Tim Burton film, and Smith has already signed up with Sony Pictures for "Bad Boys for Life."
"Bad Boys for Life," in which Smith will reteam with Martin Lawrence is the third serving of the cop movie "Bad Boys." It has the same filming schedule as "Dumbo," so scheduling conflicts are inevitable. Joe Carnahan is attached to direct and pen the script for "Bad Boys for Life."
Smith was in talks to play the father of a young boy who develops a close friendship with a lovable elephant after they meet each other at the circus, Variety reports. Burton is directing the live action adaptation of "Dumb" with a script written by Ehren Kruger.
Tom Hanks has reportedly been approached to play the still-unnamed villain. Hanks is also reportedly in talks to appear in the World War II drama "The Grey Hound," and sources say he might consider the film over "Dumbo."
The live action "Dumbo" is a retelling of the 1941 animated classic that centers on a young circus elephant that has ears big enough that he could fly.
"Dumbo" is just one of the many titles from Disney's library of classics that are being remade into live action movies. This March, Disney will debut the live action version of "Beauty and the Beast." Like its animated counterpart, the Emma Watson and Dan Stevens starrer will also be a full-on musical featuring original tunes from the 1991 film.
Disney is also working on live action remakes of "Mulan," "Lion King," "Aladdin" and "Jungle Book 2." The release date for "Dumbo" has not been confirmed as of yet.
