Hey folks, Harry here... Right as I was just about convinced that Peyton Reed could do a dang good job with THE FANTASTIC FOUR after falling in love with DOWN WITH LOVE, the guy up and leaves the project. I got several reports from folks that FANTASTIC FOUR began hitting the various "Open Directing Assignment" papers at the various Agencies this week, so I decided to call Avi Arad to see what was up with the FF.

He wouldn't say why Peyton left, only that he received a call from Peyton saying that he was leaving the project. At the moment, the film is still very much on track for a Holiday 2004 release date. They're putting finishing touches on the screenplay and apparently 20 some odd directors have expressed interest in giving it a shot. Avi was, of course, completely mute on who those 20 directors maybe, but I didn't let that stop me from telling him exactly who I'd love to see helm that baby. My top pick would be Robert Zemeckis and/or Gary Ross. It's useless to say Spielberg, as his schedule is locked up currently, and James Cameron would be amazing, but he's gonna do BATTLE ANGEL next, when he comes up from those undersea volcanic vents.

Avi then shifted the subject to THE PUNISHER, where I then admitted to him that I'm not really a fan of the character, but wish the project the best... However, when I said how thrilled I was to hear that Lee Tamahori was on DEATHLOK, he perked up. He seems to be quite high on both scripts - both of which I'd love to read.

Expect an announcement on a director for FANTASTIC FOUR sometime in August to early September. They're gonna have to move their asses pretty fast to get that film in time for Holiday 2004, I just hope they don't rush too much, when time is their ally.