In the next of several recent reboots of popular ’80s phenomenons (The Smurfs, Tron and Fright Night, to name just a few), Denzel Washington is being eyed to front the big-screen version of The Equalizer. Sony Pictures Entertainment and independent production company Escape Artists are working together to develop the movie, which updates a television series of the same name that ran from 1985 through 1989. The script is still under wraps, but it will follow Robert McCall, a private detective with a dark past. Russell Crowe has previously been associated with the roll, but Sony has confirmed that they want Washington to star.

Washington has a history with the company: he previously starred in Escape Artists’ The Taking of Pelham 123, and worked with attached producer Todd Black on both Antwone Fisher and The Great Debaters. We’ll let you know when Washington officially signs on for the role.

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