Midnight SpecialdirectorJeff Nicholshas signed on to write and direct 20th Century Fox’s remake ofAlien Nation. The studio first set up thissci-fi remakein March 2015, when they brought onIron ManscreenwritersArt MarcumandMatt Holloway, but nowJeff Nicholswill take over the writing duties. No production schedule was given at this time, and it isn’t known if 20th Century Fox is eyeing a particular release date quite yet.
The originalAlien Nationwas set in a future where humans and an alien race were forced to co-exist with each other, as the humans keep the alien species segregated from the general population with very little rights. The plot followed the first ever alien police officer (Mandy Patinkin) on Earth, who is paired up with a racially-biased cop (James Caan). Although they have their differences, a case comes up that causes them to form a mutual respect for one another. The report fromDeadlinedidn’t specify any details aboutJeff Nichols' new take on this story.
The original movie spawned a short-lived TV series and a number of TV movies such asAlien Nation: Dark Horizon,Alien Nation: Body and Soul,Alien Nation: Millennium,Alien Nation: The Enemy WithinandAlien Nation: The Udara Legacy, along with novels and comic books. The original movie was directed byGraham Bakerfrom a script byRockne O’Bannon, withKenneth Johnsoncreating the TV series, which only spanned 22 episodes.Kenneth Johnsonalso wrote and directed all of theTV movies.
Brian Kavanaugh-JonesandSara Greeneare producingAlien NationalongsideJeff Nichols. The producers also worked with the director on his new filmLoving, starringRuth NeggaandJoel Edgerton, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival to rave reviews. Focus Features acquired the film, based off promo footage shown at the Berlin International Film Festival, and has set a November 4 release date, putting it up againstDoctor Strange.
While it’s far to early to discuss any casting possibilities, it’s worth noting thatMichael Shannonhas had roles in all five ofJeff Nichols' movies. The actor has appeared inShotgun Stories,Take Shelter,Mud,Midnight SpecialandLoving. It’s certainly possible thatMichael Shannonwill have some sort of role inAlien Nation, but nothing is set yet.
