HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — The latest installment of the "Meet the Parents" franchise is coming along, albeit with some changes at the top.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the comedy franchise's third feature, "Little Fockers," will not be directed by Jay Roach, who helmed both "Parents" in 2000 and the 2004 follow-up, "Meet the Fockers."
Roach is still on board to produce "Fockers," but a search is on for a top-flight comedy director, with a deal expected to be in place soon. Among the candidates to replace Roach at the director helm are Paul Weitz ("In Good Company," "About a Boy"), David Wain ("Wet Hot American Summer," "Role Models") and Peyton Reed ("Yes Man"), according to the trade publication.
"Little Fockers" is expected revolve around the children of the franchise's leading couple, Greg (Ben Stiller) and Pam (Teri Polo) Focker. Negotiations are currently taking place with both stars, as well as Robert DeNiro, who plays Stiller's unforgiving father-in-law. In addition, the Reporter says casting talks are also underway with Owen Wilson, who plays Pam's ex, and could have a more prominent role in the new film.
If all goes according to plan, the new "Fockers," which was first announced two years ago, could begin shooting this summer or fall, the trade publication says.
The first two films in the franchise have been a cash bonanza for Universal Pictures, generating more than $800 million worldwide.
- Comment