Paramount brings Spielberg back to steer Transformers 8 as Michael Bay weighs directing
Paramount has asked Steven Spielberg to lead the creative direction of its next live-action Transformers film, while Michael Bay is in early talks to direct. The eighth instalment will use a modern-day script by Jason Fuchs; for Paramount, the reunion comes as the franchise looks to regain the box-office reach of its earlier films.
Bottom line — The Transformers films have earned more than $5.4 billion worldwide, but Bay’s return is not yet confirmed.
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Deadline reports that Spielberg agreed to the expanded role after reading Fuchs’ script; he will work alongside longtime producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura.
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Bay directed the franchise’s first five live-action films, ending with 2017’s The Last Knight. He is now in early talks, with no deal confirmed.
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Paramount’s two live-action films after Bay’s departure, Bumblebee and Rise of the Beasts, earned about €430 million and €406 million worldwide respectively, according to TheWrap and ScreenRant.
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The planned Transformers–G.I. Joe crossover has been cancelled, according to Polygon and TheWrap; Paramount is developing separate projects for the two franchises.
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The Hollywood Reporter says Shia LaBeouf will not return. Casting and further plot details have not been announced.