Gary Oldman in RoboCop Remake

Photo: Actor Gary Oldman

If you hadn't already heard, Gary Oldman is slated to have a starring role in the 2014 remake of RoboCop. Oldman is said to be playing the role of Dr. Robert Norton, the man who is responsible for creating the film's protagonist. Samuel L Jackson, Joel Kinnamen and Michael Keaton are also signed onto the project, which is being directed by Brazilian director Jose Padilha (Bus 174, Elite Squad, Secrets of the Tribe) who is largely known in the Sundance film community for his independent films.

Just to clarify, I am not happy that they are remaking this movie. I give the producers, writers and directors kudos for procuring such a noteworthy cast, however, some movies just don't need to be remade. I guess what I am trying to say is that I'm scared that RoboCop could end up like the Total Recall remake; a terrible sin against the original. Perhaps I should be more optimistic, perhaps Mr. Padilha is a genius and could make something awesome. I don't know though, mainly because I am not terribly familiar with his work, which has been done entirely in Portuguese, and because his resume is kinda short (he's done about six films). What little faith I do have in the film is rooted in the simple fact that Oldman has agreed to do it. I have been a Gary Oldman fan since I first saw him in the Fifth Element where he played a colorful villain with a sassy southern accent. Often playing psychos, villains and complicated men, Oldman seems to thrive on screen as the unpredictable antagonist. If you've ever seen him in Leon: the Professional or Sid and Nancy, then you are familiar with what I like to call "the genius of Oldman." He literally spits, screams and sweats life into his characters, never leaving room for you too misconstrue their nature. Not to sound like a fan girl, but this is why I love Oldman and would consider him one of the best living actors still in the business. Hopefully his willingness to be part of RoboCop is an indicator that this film will rock. Film opens February 7, 2014.

The New RoboCop