‘Robocop’ Remake Adds Michael Keaton

There must have been something of a scramble to replace Hugh Laurie when he dropped out of the 'Robocop' remake. Even though word about the script and the making of it have suggested that the film isn't going to be great, they've just made a great choice in casting: They're replacing Laurie with Michael Keaton.

Keaton became one of the premiere comic actors in the 1980's, with films like 'Night Shift' and 'Beetlejuice,' but it was his turn as Bruce Wayne in 1989's 'Batman' and its sequel that made him exceptionally rich. And though he would ply his trade throughout the last two decades, he mostly took smaller movies, or supporting roles in films like 'Jackie Brown' and 'The Other Guys.'

Deadline Hollywood says he'll be playing the head of the company that builds Robocop, though it sounds like they've changed the name from Omni Consumer Products. When this was announced they got director Jose Padilha to say a few words (perhaps as damage control):

Michael is the final addition to the amazing cast we have assembled for this film and it is so great to have the last puzzle piece in place. It is thrilling that everything has come together to bring this innovative new vision of RoboCop to life. We’ve got a great script, a great cast, some killer ED-209’s and I can’t wait to get Alex Murphy back on the streets.”

Hopefully, this isn't just PR spin. The movie is scheduled for August 9, 2013.