Paul Greengrass, director of “The Bourne Supremacy” and “The Bourne Ultimatum,” has dropped out of the planned fourth film in the "Bourne" series.
The problem stems from Universal Pictures, the studio behind the “Bourne” franchise, hiring screenwriter Josh Zetumer to create a ‘parallel script’ to the one already written by George Nolfi (who co-wrote “Ultimatum”).
The news broke on The Playlist, which claimed Greengrass was upset by Universal not consulting him when they brought in Zetumer to write the 'parallel script.'
To make matters worse, Universal already was upset with Greengrass because he went way over budget on his latest film, the Iraq war thriller "Green Zone." And because Universal is a bit finicky with their money right now (and are in desperate need of a hit), everything fell apart.
Variety reports that Universal Pictures has now issued a statement from Greengrass saying: "My decision to not return a third time as director is simply about feeling the call for a different challenge. There's been no disagreement with Universal Pictures.
"The opportunity to work with the 'Bourne' family again is a difficult thing to pass up, but we have discussed this together and they have been incredibly understanding and supportive.
"I've been lucky enough to have made four films for Universal, and our relationship continues. Jason Bourne existed before me and will continue, and I hope to remain involved in some capacity as the series moves on."
If Greengrass isn't going to be back, who will take over in his stead? It's been suggested that screenwriter Nolfi might now step into the director's chair on “Bourne 4.” Another possibility is Tony Gilroy, a writer/director who co-penned all three previous “Bourne” movies.
In either case, Greengrass's exit has put “Bourne 4” way off track. Filming was due to start late next year but as there is no finished script and now no director, it will be even longer until we see Matt Damon return as Jason Bourne.
Wait…it does get worse. Apparently Matt Damon is loyal to Greengrass, so Damon’s involvement is now hanging in the balance. So we either face a "Bourne 4" without Damon or nothing at all.
What do you think of Greengrass walking away from “Bourne 4”?
