Memorandum
- From
- Derek Weston via Deadline
- Date
- Filed
- Culture·3 min to read
- Re
Michael Showalter to Direct Modern Retelling of ‘Serendipity’ for Amazon MGM and Miramax
ReMichael Showalter to Direct Modern Retelling of ‘Serendipity’ for Amazon MGM and Miramax
Michael Showalter is set to direct a modern retelling of the cult-classic romantic comedy ‘Serendipity’ for Amazon MGM Studios and Miramax, with original screenwriter Marc Klein returning to pen the script.
Michael Showalter is set to direct a modern retelling of the cult-classic romantic comedy Serendipity for Amazon MGM Studios and Miramax, with casting currently underway. The project brings back Marc Klein, who wrote the original 2001 film, to pen the new script, according to sources familiar with the production.
Showalter will produce through his Semi-Formal Productions banner alongside Jordana Mollick, with Simon Fields, who produced the original movie, also attached as a producer. The new version is described as a contemporary reimagining of the beloved story, though plot details remain under wraps.
The original Serendipity starred John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale as two strangers who meet while shopping in New York City and, despite a strong connection, decide to leave their fate to chance. They part ways without exchanging contact information, trusting that if they are meant to be together, destiny will reunite them. The film, directed by Peter Chelsom, became a touchstone of early-2000s romantic comedies and has maintained a devoted following over the years.
Showalter is known for his work in both comedy and drama, having directed films such as The Big Sick, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and Spoiler Alert. He also co-created and starred in the cult comedy series Wet Hot American Summer and has directed episodes of acclaimed television shows including The Dropout and Search Party. His ability to blend humor with emotional depth makes him a fitting choice for a story that hinges on romantic longing and the idea of fate.
The project marks another instance of Hollywood revisiting beloved titles from the early 2000s, a trend that has seen reboots and sequels of films such as How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Legally Blonde enter development. For Amazon MGM Studios, the retelling fits within its strategy of mining existing intellectual property for new audiences while leveraging nostalgia for established fan bases.
Miramax, which produced the original film, has been actively developing new projects across film and television. The collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios suggests a significant theatrical or streaming release, though no release date has been announced.
Fans of the original will be watching closely to see how the story is updated for a modern audience. The core themes of chance, timing, and the belief that love can defy logic are likely to remain central, even as the setting and cultural references evolve. With Klein returning to write, the new version is expected to retain the spirit of the original while offering a fresh take for a new generation.
As casting gets underway, more details about the cast and production timeline are expected to emerge. The project is still in early development, and no director of photography or additional crew members have been announced yet.
