It's been awhile since we've heard any news about the forever-in-the-works Dallas movie, but don't be fooled -- the development gears have continued to grind behind the scenes, and as proof, here's an item in Variety about the project's new screenwriter and (probable) director.

According to Variety, Betty Thomas is in negotiations to direct the TV adaptation, a position she'd take over from the last Dallas director, Gurinder Chadha. Meanwhile, Pam Brady is working on a new script.

"Wait a minute," you might be saying. "Betty Thomas? The woman who directed the Brady Bunch movies? And hey, didn't Pam Brady write Hot Rod? What's going on here?"

It's simple, really. Regency and 20th Century Fox have decided that Dallas should be a comedy. A spoof, if you will. It's all about the kids, according to the article, which puts it succinctly: "There is...hope that a comedy about the dysfunctional Ewings will appeal to a younger audience, which has become a Regency priority."

This should work out wonderfully. Everybody knows that kids can't tell when they're being targeted at all. Fish in a barrel!

Variety lists a January start date for the new Dallas, and yes, John Travolta is still attached to star.

Source: Variety