Washington Is No Longer Unstoppable

If Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 turned a solid profit, 20th Century Fox would be shitting their pants in anticipation for Unstoppable. But it didn't and prospects on this project have gotten more grim (than we last reported) as Denzel Washington has opted out from what would have been his fifth collaboration with director Tony Scott.

Production was supposed to start up this fall but stalled because of disputes over the $100+ million budget as well as salary negotiations with Washington, Scott and Chris Pine. Although the trades indicate that Fox put another offer on the table for Washington to stay onboard, one shouldn't hold their breath as the studio is said to also be looking at other actors to fill the role.

In fact if the film even happens, don't be surprised if Scott or Pine aren't a part of the production either - especially the latter.

Although he's still involved at the moment, the time-table for his participation will shrink if the project continues to lag considering he's contractually committed to at least two more Star Trek installments. Paramount wants the first sequel out by Summer 2011 which means it would be in production sooner rather than later.