Cowell has been in negotiations for weeks with legendary film producer Robert Stigwood, who owns the rights to the screenplay. He has even drawn up a wish-list of top talent to prove to Robert that his version will be a match for the classic. High School Musical star Zac Efron is in line for the lead role and hip-hop producer Timbaland is expected to rework on one of the most famous movie soundtracks of all time.
“Simon has been looking into buying the rights for years and opened discussions with Robert about the remake,” said a source. “Robert was keen to get some assurances that the original wouldn’t be completely butchered before he agreed to the deal. Simon has been drawing up a list of people he wants to get involved. When that meets Robert’s expectations, the contracts will be signed,” added the source.
Published 29 June 2009, 15:22 IST