RDJ Exits Sam Raimi's OZ: The Great & Powerful , Depp To Replace Him?

HeatVision reports that Robert Downey Jr. has left Disney's Oz: The Great & Powerful which is being directed by Sam Raimi (Evil Dead & Spider-Man Trilogies). The site expects Johnny Depp could very well step in to save the production for the studio. It would be a safer choice for Disney as they have a strong relationship with Depp and he's already been involved in a re-imagining of a classic story with Alice In Wonderland.

The only issue would be his availability since he's starting production on Tim Burton's Dark Shadows next. Depp will also be busy starring in three other Disney films with Lone Ranger playing Tonto along with Pirates 5 and Pirates 6. The last two have been rumored to be shooting back to back. The site mentions that Oz is further along than Ranger and could start production in the second half of the year.

Sam Raimi Officially Directing Oz

Deadline reports that director Sam Raimi's next film will be Disney's Oz: The Great & Powerful. The director had been actively working on the Warcraft film for WB/Legendary Pictures but it looks like he'll helm this film first. The prequel has Robert Downey Jr. attached to star as a younger version of the Wizard. David Lindsay-Abaire (Rabbit Hole) has come on board to rewrite the film's script. I expect that the film will start production later next year. Since RDJ is looking to star in both Avengers and Gravity before this project.

Sam Raimi & Robert Downey Jr. Confirmed For Oz

Deadline reports that Disney has struck a deal with Sam Raimi (Evil Dead, Spider-Man) to direct Oz The Great & Powerful. The prequel which would focus on the adventures of the Wizard has Robert Downey Jr. attached to star.

Sam Rami To Direct Oz The Great & Powerful?

Vulture reports Disney has offered Sam Rami the director's chair for Oz The Great & Powerful. Previously there had been interest from other directors such as Sam Mendes, Guillermo Del Toro, Adam Shankman, and Timur Bekmambetov. Ever since Spider-Man 4 was axed by Sony Rami has been looking for another film to make before starting Warcraft which is still in script phases. Rami would be perfect for the project let's hope he chooses this next.