There has been a change in tide in Universal Studios' making of their live-action version of The Little Mermaid as director Sofia Coppola backed out because of creative differences.
Hollywood Reporter also said that the script of the live-action fairy tale is written by Caroline Thompson, Tim Burton's favorite who also wrote Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Corpse Bride.
Because of the setback, Universal Studios is now facing a "credibility issue" after Atonement director Joe Wright earlier turned down the project, according to The Guardian. The movie has been set since 2011.
Producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner (both known for Les Miserables, Fargo, The Big Lebowski) are said to be working on the project. Sources also reported that before this issue was out, Coppola was meeting Bevan and Fellner for the film's casting in London.
Still, the studio is moving forward with the production of the film, Hollywood Reporter added.
Walt Disney has set the bar high with its popular 1989 film. As of now, neither company owns the right to the Hans Christian Andersen classic. But while Universal is busy with this project, Disney is already rolling out another live-action movie for Tinker Bell, starring Reese Witherspoon. 20th Century Fox also made an announcement in November 2014 of its own film, starring Melissa McCarthy.
The Little Mermaid is about a young mermaid who gives up her life in the sea in order to become human and have a chance in getting the love of a prince. Hans Christian Andersen's original 1837 story has a very downbeat ending, to say the least. But in the Disney version, the tale of Ariel ended happily ever after.
After turning down this film, there is no news of upcoming projects for the Virgin Suicides, The Bling Ring, and Lost in Translation director. However, she was able to finish her Netflix Christmas movie with Bill Murray.
