Cage returning for Ghost Rider sequel? Crank duo to Direct?

After the last news we had on Ghost Rider 2, the project had the distinct smell of "straight to DVD" all over it. Reportedly the studio was primed to move on with the David Goyer planned sequel without star Nicolas Cage reprising his role as Johnny Blaze. They were ok with pushing ahead mainly due to the licensing issue we've discussed on this site before, where studios must use these Marvel Comics characters or use the ability to do so. Sony Pictures, not wanting to lose the Ghost Rider rights, has been moving full steam ahead.  Now it's starting to look like they'll have their big gun back in the saddle, as THR is reporting that Cage is in early talks to return for what is now being called Ghost Rider: The Spirit of Vengeance.

What's more, it's looking Sony has nailed down who will helm the project: Brian Taylor and Mark Neveldine, directors of Gamer and the Crank films. Nothing's been signed as of yet, but if they sign it'll be their first foray into the superhero world. Scott Gimple and Seth Hoffman penned the script based off of David Goyer's treatment, but there's a chance a new script will be turned in if Neveldine/Taylor take control.

The best thing about Ghost Rider was Nicolas Cage. It was that film's only real selling point, so I'm happy to see him possibly returning. Neveldine/Taylor are known for their kinetic style of filmmaking, which makes their movies seem more like video games than anything else. I'm not sure how that will gel with Ghost Rider, but that's going to depend mostly on the path the script takes.