Adam Sandler will star in an update of the classic 1974 comedy “The Longest Yard” it was announced today by Sherry Lansing, Chairman, Motion Picture Group, Paramount Pictures and Donald De Line, Vice Chairman, Motion Picture Group and President, Paramount Pictures. The film is set to go into production in June 2004. Paramount will partner and co-produce the film with Columbia Pictures. “Adam is a brilliant actor and comedian. ‘The Longest Yard’ is the perfect film to showcase his genius,” said Ms. Lansing.
“Adam and Jack are great filmmakers and wonderful collaborators,” said Mr. De Line. “We have known each other since we worked together on ‘The Waterboy’ and I am thrilled to be reuniting with them on ‘The Longest Yard.'”
Sandler, the star of such blockbuster hits as “Mr. Deeds,” “Anger Management” and “The Waterboy,” will play the part of Paul Crewe, a retired quarterback-turned-con who leads a team of prison inmates in a game against the guards. Producers are in discussions with Chris Rock to play “Caretaker” and Snoop Dogg to play a member of the team. A who’s who of rap stars and current and former NFL players will round out the cast.
Sandler and Jack Giarraputo’s production company, Happy Madison will be teaming up with Van Toffler and David Gale at MTV Films to produce. Sheldon Turner wrote the script.
“Although we plan to update quite a few things, the overall story will remain intact. We want to keep the same blend of comedy and grit that made the first one a classic,” stated Jack Giarraputo.
Paramount Pictures will distribute the film domestically and Columbia TriStar Film Distributors International will distribute the film internationally.
