The long-anticipated reimagining of one of the most iconic films starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston is officially gaining traction. Houston, who is widely celebrated as one of the greatest vocalists in history, initially captured the public’s attention with her 1984 duet “Hold Me”. Her groundbreaking debut album released in 1985 became a historic achievement, marking the first solo album by a female artist to feature three number 1 singles in the U.S. Beyond her esteemed music career, Houston also acted in various television roles before making her film debut alongside Costner in the early 1990s.
In the early 1980s, Costner embarked on his acting journey, but it was his role as Eliot Ness in the 1987 classic The Untouchables that truly launched his career. He continued to rise to fame with the critically acclaimed Dances With Wolves in 1990, both directing and starring in this epic western, which garnered 12 Academy Award nominations and ultimately won him honors for Best Director and Best Picture, solidifying his status in Hollywood.
New Developments in the Remake of Costner and Houston’s Timeless Romance
Initial Remake Plans Announced in 2021
Following the success of Dances with Wolves and the romantic action-adventure Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Costner paired with Houston in what would become her most renowned role. While initial development for a film adaptation began in 1978 with plans to feature Diana Ross and Ryan O’Neal, it was not until 1992 that The Bodyguard was produced. This film showcased Costner as a former Secret Service agent tasked with protecting Houston’s character, a famous singer, from a persistent stalker. In 2021, news emerged that a remake was in the works, with Tony-nominated playwright Matthew López set to write the screenplay.
Recently, Warner Bros. has revitalized the project with announcements from studio executives Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy regarding a new director and screenwriter. Jonathan A. Abrams, known for his work on Juror No. 2, has been selected to take over screenplay duties from López, while Sam Wrench, director of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, will direct the film. As of now, no casting has been officially revealed.
Implications for The Bodyguard Remake
The New Director: A Unique Background with Pop Icons
Despite receiving a mixed critical response, The Bodyguard achieved remarkable commercial success, grossing over $411 million worldwide and producing one of the best-selling soundtracks in music history. Whether Warner Bros. will be able to replicate this level of triumph with the new creative team remains to be seen. However, Wrench’s direct experiences with the dynamics of a high-profile touring artist could be invaluable as he aims to refresh the classic narrative.
With Abrams’ project Juror No. 2 recognized as one of the standout films of 2024, he may offer a compelling reinterpretation of Lawrence Kasdan’s original script. Nevertheless, given that much of the first film’s success hinged on its stellar casting, anticipation builds around which contemporary pop star might take on the role initially played by Houston. Many speculate that Wrench’s connection to the music industry may suggest a potential collaboration with Taylor Swift.
Source: Deadline