Written By: Nick Poulimenakos

Disney’s plan to remake several of their animated classics is currently steamrolling ahead but one film in production has currently hit a snag.

Talkies Network has learned that Sam Mendes (Skyfall, Spectre), has dropped out of directing Disney’s live-action remake of Pinocchio.

Back in May 2017, Mendes entered into talks with the house of mouse to helm the project with a script written by Rogue One’s Chris Weitz. Weitz is also producing the film via his banner, Depth of Field.

Surprisingly, this isn’t the first Disney film that Mendes has left. Previously, he was in talks to helm the James and the Giant Peach adaption. Ironically, he left that adaptation in favour of directing Pinocchio.

With several live-action adaptations already in production at Disney, the company won’t have to worry about pushing films like this out to the public. Instead, they can take their time and search for the right director to oversee this remake of such a beloved film.

Disney currently has Jon Favreau’s Lion King film in production and is scheduled for a July 19, 2019 release. In addition, Guy Ritchie’s Aladdin and Tim Burton’s Dumbo are also currently filming.

Keep it locked on Talkies Network for all the latest news on Disney’s live-action remakes of animated films!