Actors Shuffle Films in Pre-Strike Frenzy

Sept. 12 -- Some films are already feeling the impact of the looming actors’ strike, particularly Steve Soderbergh’s all-star ensemble remake of Ocean's Eleven, which was depending on several A-list actors to work for lower rates.

As studios race to complete their films before the actors’ strike that may hit July 1, big stars just can’t afford to squander their time on smaller pics.

Already abandoning the Ocean’s ship is Mark Wahlberg, who’s tied up with his lead role in Tim Burton’s Planet of the Apes remake. Wahlberg may be replaced by another blond hunk — Matt Damon. That is, if Damon’s able to squeeze it in around his starring role in The Bourne Identity.

Bruce Willis may be replaced by Ewan McGregor, who’s already been offered the Die Hard star’s role in Ocean’s, according to Variety’s Michael Fleming.

If brothers Luke and Owen Wilson, who had earlier been announced for the casino heist film, are tied up with the follow-up to Bottle Rocket, The Royal Tenenbaums, Soderbergh may turn to two other brothers: Joel and Ethan Coen. Trouble is, they’ve also got a project in the pipeline: their untitled Barber Project noir, starring Billy Bob Thornton and Frances McDormand. The Coens, it should be noted, have never acted before.

Despite such high-profile departures, Soderbergh’s snazzy remake still boasts plenty of big names: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts are all committed, says Fleming.

Plum’s Goose Cooked?

And a strike would certainly mean curtains for Jodie Foster’s little circus film, Flora Plum. With lead Russell Crowe sidelined for at least nine months due to a shoulder injury, the film was already on the shelf, and in nine months, an actors’ strike could be in full swing.

That’s too bad for Jodie, since it may be the last time Crowe’s services can be had so cheaply. Post-Gladiator, the accented hunk’s now worth $15 million. Since Jodie’s a pal, however, perhaps they can work something out.