Back in May of this year it was announced that Robert Rodriguez would be directing a remake of the 1968 film Barberella with Universal Studios, which originally starred Jane Fonda.  Fast-forward to today, and it looks like it may be awhile before we see a remake of this film, after Universal Studios decided to dump it.   It’s not a rumor at this point either - all parties involved have confirmed the parting of ways.

What is up in the air, however, are the exact reasons why Universal had a change of heart.  According to IGN Movies, there are two explanations floating about. First is that Universal started getting cold feet over Rodriguez’s decision to cast Rose McGowan in the leading role.  It is rumored that the studio was hoping for a bigger name star such as Jessica Alba or Halle Berry, and had no faith that McGowan could carry the film.  Rodriguez, however, is disputing that claim and, according to IGN, said that the project’s increasing budget was the reason for Universal’s pullout.  Universal initially agreed to a budget of $60 million, but it’s ending up near $82 million.  Rodriguez told IGN that Universal is still willing to make it for the initial $60 million agreement, but he is holding out for the full $83 million budget.  So the question at this point is, is anyone going to take him up on that, or will Barbarella soon be forgotten?

Rodriguez tells IGN that Universal is still willing to sign off on a $60 million Barbarella, but he’s still holding out for the full $82 million budget. Any takers?