Imagine a world where human boxers have been completely replaced by robotic brawlers. Now imagine you're a former fighter, forced to find some way to support yourself after your services are no longer required. That's basically the premise behind Real Steel, the upcoming film by director Shawn Levy. Levy is the "mastermind" behind both Night at the Museum films and the woeful The Pink Panther from a few years ago.
Despite his questionable cred, Variety is reporting that Hugh Jackman is now in talks to take on the lead role in the Rocky-like drama. Jackman is just coming off another successful turn as Wolverine in X-men Origins, and is currently starring on stage opposite Daniel Craig in a theater production of A Steady Rain.
This is a good news, bad news situation. Shawn Levy is a mediocre to bad director. I'm hard pressed to find a film he's done that's been even marginally watchable. But the film's premise, along with Jackman as the lead, have me intrigued. This is definitely different than anything Levy's done before, so maybe he'll finally impress me. I'm sure it's at the top of his priority list.
