J.J. Abrams Thinks ‘Apes’ Director Rupert Wyatt Would Be Perfect For ‘Star Trek 3′

Last month, we first heard the rumor that 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes' director Rupert Wyatt was being considered to direct 'Star Trek 3.' And then ... silence. Unlike the quickly shot-down Jon M. Chu rumors, this one was allowed to linger, lending the news a bit more credibility. Now, former 'Star Trek' director (and current 'Star Wars: Episode 7' director) J.J. Abrams has been asked about Wyatt's involvement and the response is typical Abrams.

Since he's infamous for his extremely secretive approach to filmmaking and marketing, Abrams wasn't about to spill too many beans when HitFix asked him about the situation. Although he doesn't deny that they've been looking at Wyatt, he quickly shifts the subject, saying that his people are still trying to break the story and that a director will come after. Here's the full evasive/complimentary quote:

He's incredibly talented and we'd be lucky to have someone as talented as Rupert. But there are things we're focusing on right now before the director, which is just sort of the fundamentals of where the story is gonna go...It's too early to talk about details but there have been a lot of really exciting ideas about what comes next.

Abrams also adds that since 'Star Trek Into Darkness' concluded with Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise embarking on their five year mission, we may get to see some more old-fashioned 'Trek' storytelling in the third film. After all, this has always been a franchise about discovery and-

Wait a minute. Now, Abrams has us talking about the story possibilities of the third film instead of those Rupert Wyatt rumors! We see what you did, sir. Well played.

In any case, Abrams doesn't seem too bummed to be leaving 'Star Trek' behind. After all, 'Star Wars' is his real love and he mentions how fun it was bringing his personal style to the  'Mission: Impossible' franchise and how he'd love to see another director play with this universe. Considering that Wyatt proved he can make smart, emotionally compelling science fiction with 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes,' we think he's the perfect choice to take control of Abrams' toys.