And the Most Random Movie Remake Goes To: Drop Dead Fred

THR is reporting that Universal has scraped the bottom of the barrel and found one more movie tore-tread in hopes of saving a dollar and killing off the idea that Hollywood is a place for the imagination. That’s right, Drop Dead Fred will soon be making a come back in a theater near you.

But wait… It gets better! Playing the role of Fred will be none other than Russel Brand, the actor/ comedian who I can honestly say I’ve come to enjoy through his stand up recently, but who seems to be latching on to some very odd projects like his other remake, Arthur.

The 1991 original starred Phoebe Cates as a wallflower who loses her job and husband during the course of a lunch hour. Forced to live back home, she’s reunited with her childhood imaginary friend (Brit actor Rik Mayall), who promises to help but causes more havoc.

Interestingly, the original tanked when it hit theaters. Not only did the critics call it out for being a big load of garbage, but audiences agreed. The film made just over 13 million dollars in its initial run.

The take for the new “Fred” is to make a film in the tone of “Beetlejuice,” building a universe around the concept of imaginary friends. Brand would play the trouble-making pal.