Well, finally some good news about Relativity Media‘s totally unnecessary, impending reboot of The Crow, which is to be directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (28 Weeks Later, Intruders) and is slated to start shooting early next year.

THR reports that Bradley Cooper (The Words) who was signed on to star in the film has dropped the role of Eric Draven, who was portrayed by the late Brandon Lee in the original film, directed by Alex Proyas. Cooper reportedly exited the role due to scheduling conflicts between production of The Crow and (ironically) his role in the Alex Proyas directed Paradise Lost.

The studio reportedly still has the pipe dream of casting Mark Wahlberg, and are reportedly also looking at casting Channing Tatum in Cooper’s place, the latter should assure that the remake goes straight to DVD where it belongs.

[The Shakedown]

From what I know of both James O’Barr and Alex Proyas‘ feelings about any remakes, I think it’s safe to assume that when Cooper signed for Paradise Lost, Proyas talked some sense into him. No matter what the cause of his departure, I am now a fan of Bradley Cooper.

The Crow will hopefully never make it to theaters.