According to the Hollywood Reporter, MGM have scoured the globe searching for their cast for the pending remake of 1980 musical "Fame". The names plucked from obscurity are Kristy Flores, Paul Iacono, Paul McGill, Naturi Naughton, Kay Panabaker, Kherington Payne, Collins Pennie, Walter Perez and Anna Maria Perez de Tagle. Who are these fresh-faced hopefuls? Well, suffice it to say that most are newcomers to the scene with one eye on a breakthrough performance in "Fame". A case of life imitating art then!
Two faces that are a little more familiar to audiences on this side of the pond are Thomas Dekker and Debbie Allen. The former, "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" star, is in protracted negotiations to take up one of the lead roles with Allen, who starred as Lydia in the original hit musical, rumoured to be in for a cameo this time around (possibly as one of the teachers).
The $25 million remake has been brought up to date by scribes Allison Burnett and Aline Brosh McKenna and will be directed by choreographer Kevin Tancharoen so expect some audacious dance moves! "Fame" will stick to the tried and tested formula and focus on the trials and tribulations of an ambitious group of students vying to make a mark at the High School for the Performing Arts in New York.
The film is expected to begin shooting in late November to make its Sept. 25, 2009 release date.