This remake, which is said to be an "urban" re-imagining that involves an established rap star falling for an upcoming r&b songstress, has been in the works for ages.
Joel Schumacher was developing it for Columbia Pictures about six years ago. His version would have starred Will Smith (who was also going to produce it) and Jennifer Lopez.
Lopez ended up dropping out due to a scheduling conflict before she was able to sign on the dotted line. Though Alicia Keys was briefly perused to replace her, the project ultimately fell through.
Tonya Pinkins: Then we had a "Lot's Wife" last June that was my personal favorite. I'm still trying to get them to let me sing it at some performance where we get to sing an excerpt that's gone.
Tony Kushner: You can sing it at my funeral.