Spike Lee’s remake of Oldboy now has its star. According to reports, Josh Brolin has officially signed on for the lead role, with production scheduled to begin in March.
"Mandate Pictures announced today that Spike Lee (Inside Man) will direct OLDBOY, a remake of the highly-acclaimed South Korean film. Mark Protosevich has adapted the screenplay and will co-produce. Roy Lee and Doug Davison (The Departed, The Grudge) will produce. The film is a Vertigo Entertainment/40 Acres & A Mule Production.
OLDBOY tells the story of a man who is kidnapped and imprisoned on his daughter’s birthday. For fifteen years, he is held captive, and, upon his release, must begin his journey to find the reason for his imprisonment. He soon finds out that his kidnapper has plans for him more tortuous than his solitary confinement."
With production not starting until next year, it may be a bit before we hear about additional casting and script changes. Shortly after Spike Lee was announced as director, we heard that his version of Oldboy wouldn't be an exact remake of the original film, but no other details have been provided. We'll report back when more information is released.