Image taken from Space Jam’s official Facebook page.
Fans are still raving about the announcement of NBA superstar LeBron James headlining the iconic Space Jam sequel, but apparently, the original director himself does not believe it’s a good idea.
READ: LeBron James eyed to headline ‘Space Jam’ sequel—report
Speaking to The Holywood Reporter, director Joe Pytka strongly advised against the creation of a Space Jam 2, as he said it would simply pale in comparison to the star power of the 1996 live-action film.
“Don’t do it. It’s doomed. Michael Jordan was the biggest star on the planet,” said Pytka, who also had the likes of Bill Murray, Danny DeVito and Larry Johnson as supporting casts.
Replacing Jordan as the lead would be 4-time NBA MVP LeBron James, whom Pytka suggests has already been eclipsed by the league’s reigning MVP Steph Curry, in terms of skill in popularity.
“When we did Space Jam, there was a perfect storm of players and ex-players available — Larry Bird, Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing,” he continued. “They all had a persona that complemented the film. There are none around like that now.”
The tough-talking director added that although LeBron is still in his prime years, his star power might wane even further in the next two years the film is in production.
Meanwhile, a slew of current NBA talents have reportedly volunteered themselves to play lesser roles in the highly-anticipated film.
Among those who wish to take part include L.A. Clippers’ high-flying forward Blake Griffin, Boston Celtic’s diminutive guard Isiah Thomas and the rookie sensation of the New York Knicks, Kristaps Porzingis.
“Fast and Furious” and “Star Trek Beyond” director Justin Lin will reportedly lead behind the camera. Khristian Ibarrola