Sidney Pollack has to withdraw from directing the film, "Recount" because of illness

[Poiuyt]

Oscar-winning filmmaker Sydney Pollack has withdrawn as director of the upcoming TV movie "Recount" about the contested 2000 U.S. presidential election because of illness, his spokeswoman said on Monday.

Pollack, 73, who won Academy Awards for his work as director and producer of "Out of Africa," will be replaced by Jay Roach, the director of such film comedies as "Meet the Parents" and the "Austin Powers" movies.

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The political drama, which explores the personal stories of ordinary people caught up in the acrimonious ballot recounts in Florida at the end of the 2000 presidential race, is due to begin shooting this fall and air on HBO in 2008, the cable network said.

more -

http://www.reuters.com/article/televisionNews/idUSN0635214420070806

I don't know. I would feel better with Pollack directing.

[parasim]

1. Huh?

That's like saying, "Gee, we can't get Scorsese, so let's get... uh, the Farrelly Brothers!", or something...

[Divine Discontent]

4. the replacement is rather comical to go from one to the other! n/t

such a great guy Pollack is, just amazing at his craft... hopefully Jay has something extra in him for this... I hope.

[orleans]

2. shit. hope it doesn't turn into a fucking comedy--from what i recall

there was nothing funny about the 2000 or the 2004 election.

[Olney Blue]

3. Oh no. I hope he will be OK.

[Divine Discontent]

5. yes, thanks for reminding me to pray for him

I absolutely LOVED him in Tootsie!

[Olney Blue]

6. I loved his performance in Eyes Wide Shut

[jobycom]

7. Damn. I'm more worried about Pollack's health than about the replacement director.

Hope you get better, Sidney.

[blogslut]

8. Get better Mr. Pollack

Long time fan. Pollack is the best.

[PDJane]

9. Me too. eom.