Chris Columbus to Direct 'Ripley's Believe it or Not!'

It's about time this movie gets into production. I have always been fascinated with this guy Robert Ripley. Once upon a time in 2007 Tim Burton was attached to direct 'Ripley's Believe it of not!' and Jim Carry set to star. A few months before production was to begin Paramount shut it down. I think it was because of the China-based story line.

Columbus pitched a new idea to Paramount and they loved it! So the contract details are being hammered out as I write this. Jim Carry is still set to star in the film as newspaper columist-explorer Robert Ripley. Variety Reports:

Once Columbus' deal is closed, the studio will hire a writer to draft the project, which remains a Par priority: The studio is aiming for a 2011 release and is hoping the pic spawns a franchise. Columbus, who most recently wrapped "I Love You, Beth Cooper," is next expected to direct "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief," based on the Rick Riordan book.

I think they have a very good property to work with here. There are so many stories that can be told from the life of Robert Ripley. I am excited to see what they come up with.