J.J. Abrams and Paramount Pictures have narrowed down their options to five talented directors, one of whom would be captain of the upcoming third installment of the sci-fi epic film "Star Trek."
Among the producer's top choices is "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" director Rupert Wyatt, who, according to Deadline, has already spoken with the entertainment studio about the job to replace Roberto Orci to helm "Star Trek 3."
Wyatt, a 42-year-old writer and film-director, has already worked with Paramount Pictures in the past when he directed the remake of "The Gambler" starring Mark Wahlberg.
Aside from Wyatt, "Star Trek 3" producers are also eyeing "The Imitation Game" director Morten Tyldum, and Daniel Espinosa who led the production of "Safe House."
According to Digital Spy UK, "Fast & Furious 6" genius Justin Lin was also considered for the post, probably because his upcoming "Bourne" film with Jeremy Renner had been pushed back. Completing the group of five potential "Star Trek 3" directors is Duncan Jones who directed the "Source Code."
However, Digital Spy UK noted that Jones had declined involvement in the third leg of the popular science fiction epic, taking to Twitter to express his opinion.
"Very flattering being on short list for Star Trek, but won't be doing it. Absolutely MUST make my own thing next, or I'll die of old age!" he wrote.
As for the cast, actor William Shatner clarified that although he had been approached to return to "Star Trek" as Captain Kirk, he has not formally confirmed his involvement in it yet.
According to another report from the Digital Spy UK, the actor, who starred in the original "Star Trek" movie, declared that there were only talks about the next film and nothing more.
"That was so long ago. How do they bring me back physically like this? I don't know" he stated adding that he would only return provided that it is necessary to the turn of the plot, considering that his former character had died in "Star Trek Generations."
According to Cinema Blend, Paramount is set to schedule a targeted release date of the film since the script is all polished and the director almost hired. "Paramount has said they want to release the third Star Trek in 2016 to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the original series," said the report.
In the meantime, check out the trailer of last year's "Star Trek" installment below.
