It seems that while the western has long-found it difficult to find an audience, Hollywood stars still love the genre and jump at any chance to sling a gun. The one that’s currently getting them excited is a big-screen adaptation of the TV series, Gunsmoke.
The TV show ran for 20 years, from 1955-1975 and still retains the record for the longest running primtime drama ever on American television (it actually first started out on the radio in 1950). As a result, the character of Marshal Matt Dillon, who kept the citizens of Dodge City safe from all manner of outlaws, is a bit of a legend in America.
According to the LA Times, the top contenders for the main role in the silver screen update are Brad Pitt and Ryan Reynolds. Although those two would be many people’s first choice for most roles, it seems both have shown interest, with the studio, CBS Films, particularly keen on Brad. Apparently a few other names are also on the studio’s list, so it’s not like any final decisions have been made, but it seems they’re keen to make the movie as soon as possible.
Currently on scripting duties is Gregory Poirier (National Treasure: Book Of Secrets), who’s written a draft of the screenplay CBS Films is said to like, so expect more news on the remake very soon.