News Briefs

- Sondheim.org offers a small article about Sweeney Todd with a few quotes from producer Richard Zanuck. In it, he confirms the majority of the movie’s dialogue will be sung; the stars will do their own singing; the script was written by John Logan (Gladiator and The Last Samurai); and the film will be produced entirely at Pinewood Studios in London.

- Hindustan Times reports Indian filmmaker Mira Nair has been signed to direct the upcoming film Shantaram. Graham King of the Initial Entertainment Group is quoted: “We are really enthusiastic about having Mira on board. With her lush visual style, she lends an authentic and vital eye to the story. We are also thrilled to pair Mira with the uniquely talented Depp.” Filming is expected to begin this November in Mumbai, India with additional shooting locations in Australia and North America.

- GuelphMercury.com reports “Blowing Up Russia”, a book written by poisoned spy Alexander Litvinenko, is being reissued by British publisher Gibson Square Books. Litvinenko’s tale has already been optioned by Johnny Depp and Warner Brothers, in competition with director Michael Mann and Columbia Pictures to bring the true story to the screen.

- This Is London reports The Future Is Unwritten, a documentary about The Clash lead singer Joe Strummer, will premiere tomorrow at the Sundance Film Festival. Johnny Depp, Bono, Martin Scorsese and John Cusack are all featured in the documentary.

- LA Daily News offers an article about Chow Yun-Fat, who will appear in the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. The article contains some possible mild spoilers, so beware if you’re avoiding those.

- CNW Telbec reports Deep Sea 3D, the IMAX nature film narrated by Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, has reached a milestone with $30 million in box office receipts since its premiere last March.