WHAT YEAR IS THIS?! Apparently its the year where Joe Johnston’s 1995 classic action-adventure Jumanji gets dusted off by Sony for a remake. The original, based on the 1981 children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, was one of those weird movies which got a pretty mixed critical reception upon release, but in the years to come would develop quite a beloved following. And a lot of that has to do with the late Robin Williams, who played childish wildman Alan Parrish, who got sucked into the magical world of the titular boardgame when he was a kid, only to be busted out 26 years later – but unfortunately also bringing all of Jumanji’s crazy characters and animals with him.
This new spin on the tale though will be led by a completely different type of actor in Dwayne Johnson, as was recently confirmed. “The Rock” took to Instagram to give an update on the film, talking about the direction they were taking creatively. And with Williams’ passing in 2014 still a bit fresh for the his legions of fans, Johnson also took the opportunity to assure fans that what they’re doing in the remake will still honour the funnyman’s memory.
Stay classy, Rock! Stay classy.
The Jumanji remake will be directed by Jake Kasdan (Bad Teacher, Sex Tape) off a script by Scott Rosenberg (High Fidelity, Con Air). It’s been reported that joining Johnson will be his Central Intelligence co-star Kevin Hart. It is scheduled for a July 28, 2017 release.
Last Updated: May 11, 2016