Earlier this month, we received word that Joe Padilha (“Elite Squad” films) was in talks to direct the RoboCop reboot at MGM, but it looks like he’s been on board for a while. A week later it was also reported that Josh Zetumer will write the script for the film.
Now, Motion TV Online got a chance to talks Padilha about the project. You can watch the interview using the player below (subtitles kick-in at the 3:20 mark), and we’ve also posted his answers in text below the video.
Q: How are the RoboCop negotiations?
Joe Padilha: It is about doing a new movie, and we’re working on it at the moment, and the negotiations are closed already.
Q: It is already closed?
Padilha: It has been a while!
Q: Really? We received that news only on March 1st, but it seems like you’ve been talking about it for some time, is that correct?
Padilha: Yes, we’re already working on the screenplay and everything…
Q: This is something that can work out really well or… I mean, because there’s a lot of expectations around this, how are your expectations?
Padilha: I have no concerns about it. I only work on movies when it feels right, when I add something of my own way of portraying things. I make movies for myself and I don’t feel nervous, I have no problem with expectations, and if the movie is going to work or not. I just look forward to keep its integrity and directing it the best way I can, all the rest doesn’t concern me.
Q: MGM was looking for a globally appealing director. Why do you think they chose you?
Padilha: I don’t know. I think they saw my movies and felt there was something there that could bring to the present day this controversial, yet different, violent movie which is RoboCop without misrepresenting it.
Q: So when can we expect RoboCop to come out?
Padilha: It’s a project I’m developing from the very beginning together with Josh Zetumer, which is the screenwriter, and there’s no deadline really. When the screenplay turns out good enough, then we will start shooting.
RoboCop, a reboot of the 1987 Paul Verhoeven film, will tell the story of a police officer who, after nearly being killed in the line of duty, is rebuilt as a crime-fighting cyborg. The original film spawned two sequels and multiple television series spinoffs.
