The Mandalorian helmer, Bryce Dallas Howard, is staying in space– and on Disney+– mode. She will direct and produce a remake of Disney’s 1986 flick The Flight of the Navigator for the streaming service. She will produce under her banner, Nine Muses. The original live-action theatrical film starred Joey Cramer as 12-year-old David Freeman, a boy who comes to control a time-bending space ship, voiced by Paul Reubens (Pee-Wee Herman) although he is credited as “Paul Mall” on this film. The original also featured a young Sarah Jessica Parker as Carolyn McAdams, who befriends David. Randal Kleiser (Grease, Blue Lagoon) directed.
The first film was only a moderate success but has become a cult classic over the years, and it is recognized for its pioneering use of CGI and morphing technology. Disney has been working on a reboot since 2009, with many writers and directors including Brad Copeland, Colin Trevorrow, Joe Henderson, and Neill Blomkamp coming and going.
Howard’s remake will feature a female protagonist.
Howard previously helmed two episodes of The Mandalorian for Disney+– Chapter 4 “The Sanctuary” and Chapter 11 “The Heiress.” She is also helming the fourth episode of the upcoming spinoff The Book of Boba Fett. She has also directed multiple shorts and documentaries. The Flight of the Navigator will be her first feature film.
As an actor, Howard was last seen playing Elton John’s mother, Sheila, in the biopic Rocketman. She will return to star in Jurassic World: Dominion, and will also appear in Matthew Vaughn’s spy movie Argylle along with John Cena, Henry Cavill, Samuel L. Jackson, Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, and more.
Check back for updates on The Flight of the Navigator as they arrive. Are you a fan of the original? Are you excited at the thought of a remake with a larger budget and modern special effects?