'Crank' Co-Director Brian Taylor To Direct Big Screen Version Of 'Twisted Metal'

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by Benjamin Wright
February 15, 2012 9:21 AM
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Apparently Sony Pictures and “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance” producer Ari and Avi Arad aren’t feeling the negative buzz coming off the upcoming sequel to 2007's “Ghost Rider." While fanboys weren’t exactly stoking the flames of 'Vengeance' after a world premiere screening at Harry Knowles’ Butt-Numb-A-Thon last fall, Sony and the Arads are looking to continue business with one of the film’s co-directors.

Brian Taylor, who has only co-directed the adrenaline rush “Crank” films, "Gamer" and 'Vengeance' with Mark Neveldine up until this point, is looking to branch out on his own with an adaptation of the popular videogame franchise “Twisted Metal.” Deadline reports that Sony is closing in on a 7-figure deal with the helmer to take over the Arad-produced adaptation, which we're guessing will be finalized after the box office results of the latest 'Ghost Rider' outing roll in this weekend.

The game series, which saw its latest installment released just this week, has seen several incarnations over the years on the PlayStation game consoles. The games feature an underground battle of armored cars that are outfitted with explosives and weapons of all sorts, and features a bevy of oddball characters, in particular a “Ghost Rider”-esque clown whose head is constantly on fire. So Taylor Is basically making “Ghost Rider” meets “Death Race,” so if that’s what you’re into, fine.

There’s no reason stated as to why Taylor has parted ways with frequent collaborator Neveldine, but since they’re still talking up a possible “Crank 3D,” the split likely won't be for long. “Ghost Rider: Spirit Of Vengeance” opens this weekend and its reception will probably determine the shape, scope and budget of Taylor's "Twisted Metal."

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