Disney Developing Live-Action GASTON Movie With ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE Writer Dave Callaham
Disney is once again digging into its animated vault, and this time putting the spotlight on one of its most memorable villains. The studio is in early development on a live-action movie centered on Gaston, the larger than life villain from Beauty and the Beast.
According to sources, Dave Callaham has been tapped to write the script, with Michelle Rejwan producing. No director is attached yet. A previous draft of the script was written by Kate Herron and Briony Redman, though Disney is now moving forward with Callaham’s take on the character.
Gaston made his debut in Disney’s 1992 animated classic Beauty and the Beast as a vain and aggressive hunter obsessed with Belle and he ends up marching out to the castle to kill the Beast after being fueled by ego, jealousy, and a need to be adored.
That version of the story was reimagined for the 2017 live-action adaptation, where Luke Evans played the character. The film went on to earn over a billion dollars worldwide. At one point, Disney explored a Disney+ series built around Gaston with Evans returning, but that project was ultimately shelved.
This new film isn’t tied to that version. Plot details are being kept under wraps, but sources say the movie will tell a new and original story with a new actor stepping into the role.
The tone is described as having “swashbuckling” energy, suggesting something more adventurous and character driven rather than a straight retelling. Insiders also say the studio is excited about the direction the project is heading.
Rejwan has a long history with Disney Studios dating back to her time overseeing live-action at Lucasfilm. Her producing credits include Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Andor, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, giving her plenty of experience handling massive franchises and iconic characters.
Callaham brings his own heavyweight resume to the table. He has worked on several major tentpole projects featuring well known characters, including Godzilla, King Kong, and Spider-Man. His writing credits include Godzilla x Kong, The Expendables, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
Disney continues to mine its animated legacy through live action films, and focusing on villains has become an increasingly appealing angle. If this Gaston movie leans into its adventurous tone and gives the character a fresh spin, it could end up being a fun and unexpected addition to the studio’s expanding slate.
Source: Deadline