Whispers in the Dark: One more Monty?

Thursday, Oct. 9, 1997 | 10:07 a.m.

* 'Troopers' director's next trick?: It seems like "Starship Troopers" director Paul Verhoeven will take on a film biography of illusionist and escape artist Harry Houdini. No casting has been announced, but rumor has it two or three "major" stars are in negotiations to play the legendary escape artist. We think it should be Tom Cruise. A lot of people would like to see him endure the Chinese Water Torture tank. Look for a Christmas 1998 release for "Houdini."

* Dear Deity: Everyone knows actress Emma Thompson has tremendous range, but to play God? "Chasing Amy" director Kevin Smith wants the Oscar winner to be The Almighty in "Dogma," for Miramax. A "supernatural comedy," "Dogma" follows a pair of wayward angels who want to get back into Heaven, but to do so, they must destroy the Earth. Smith, whose other credits include "Clerks," "Mallrats" and the original script for the next "Superman" film, will also take on the screenplay for -- and possibly direct -- the next "Fletch" film for Chevy Chase.

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