We’re hearing multiple sources believe Paramount Pictures’ forthcoming Biblical epic NOAH is in trouble following a number of negative test screenings. The film, which has Oscar-winner Russell Crowe leading as the builder of the Ark, is directed by the art-house filmmaking favourite Darren Aronofsky. However, the studio have put suggested editorial revisions on the table for Aronofsky but apparently he’s refusing to budge on his final cut.
Here’s what the The Hollywood Reporter is claiming:
In recent weeks, the studio has held test screenings for key groups that might take a strong interest in the subject matter: in New York (for a largely Jewish audience), in Arizona (Christians) and in Orange County, Calif. (general public). All are said to have generated troubling reactions. But sources say Aronofsky has been resistant to Paramount’s suggested changes. “Darren is not made for studio films,” says a talent rep with ties to the project. “He’s very dismissive. He doesn’t care about [Paramount’s] opinion
Aronofsky’s style is perhaps not best suited for epic blockbuster filmmaking (NOAH has a $125 million budget) but this was a passion project for him. He’d previously been tapped by 20th Century Fox to helm THE WOLVERINE but left the project citing creative differences. He’s definitely a director known for sticking to his guns (just look at controversy surrounding THE FOUNTAIN), so it will be interesting to see how this one plays out.
NOAH co-stars Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson, Ray Winstone, Logan Lerman, Douglas Booth and Anthony Hopkins. It set to flood into theaters 28th March 2014.
