[dropcap size=small]P[/dropcap]aramount Pictures is looking to reteam the unlikely comedy duo of Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell in a new Gary-Sanchez-produced comedy, Daddy’s Home.
The project was initially intended for Ferrell and Vince Vaughn with Etan Cohen (Men in Black 3) directing, but those plans never panned out. Paramount is moving fast to put the project back together, this time with Mark Wahlberg in lieu of Vaughn, and a new team to helm.
Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg first showed off their on-screen chemistry in the 2010 hit film The Other Guys. Sean Anders and John Morris are in discussion to direct Daddy’s Home. The pair most recently directed Horrible Bosses 2 after penning the script for another recent comedy favorite, We’re the Millers. Production is expected to begin in the fall.
Daddy’s Home was originally scripted by Brian Burns, Adam McKay & Chris Henchy, and Etan Cohen. It follows the story of a mild-mannered radio exec (Ferrell) who strives to be the best stepdad ever to his wife’s two children, but it’s all ruined when their deadbeat, carefree real father (Wahlberg) shows up to complicate things. The stepdad must then compete for the affection of the kids.
Sounds like there’s a lot of fun to be had, and it will be refreshing to see Wahlberg in a role that sounds to be a bit wackier with Ferrell less-traditionally cast as what sounds to be more of the straight-man in the film.
‘Other Guys’ was not too bad, but I did not enjoy it as much as I know I could have, had their been better writing and direction. I like the pair together though, so maybe another shot will bring the funny we hope for and expect.