Universal cancels drug thriller 'Cartel'

Universal has shut down pre-production for "Cartel," a drug drama that was supposed to start shooting in a few weeks. Deadline New York says the studio decided to cancel the project because of script and budget issues, as well as security risks of shooting this thing in Mexico. Yeah, that one I can understand.

Josh Brolin was on board as the lead character, a man trying to protect his son after his wife is murdered in the world of drug cartels. Peter Craig wrote the script, and Asger Leth was supposed to direct. At one stage, Sean Penn was attached to star in the film, befire he left it and Brolin came on.

Latest Hollywood casting deals: Richard Jenkins ready to 'Let Me In;' Josh Brolin joins 'Cartel'

Here is a list of the latest, most important film casting deals out of Hollywood for Friday, Oct. 2, 2009:

• Richard Jenkins, Kodi Smit-McPhee and Chloe Moretz are set to star in Matt Reeves' "Let Me In," the remake of the Swedish sensation "Let the Right One In." The film follows the relationship between a boy and a girl who is a vampire. The film should be ready for release next year. (Variety)

• Josh Brolin, who will soon be seen in "Jonah Hex," has signed on to star in "Cartel," a drama directed by Asger Leth. Brolin plays a man trying to protect his son after his wife is murdered in the world of drug cartels. Peter Craig penned the script, with Brian Grazer producing. (Variety)

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Sean Penn's had enough; leaves two projects

In an effort to devote more time to his private life, Oscar winner Sean Penn has dropped out of two big projects: "Cartel" and "The Three Stooges."

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Penn already announced he's not going to be available to play the parts. It's not clear how long he'll take a break from acting, but the trades say it could last up to a year, if not longer.

Penn was set to star in "Cartel," Asger Leth's drama about a man who embarks on a dangerous mission to protect his son after his wife is killed in the world of Mexican cartels. Penn will be replaced by someone else.

The second project is Peter and Bobby Farrelly's "The Three Stooges," which also stars Jim Carrey and Benicio Del Toro. No word yet on what the Farrellys plan on doing - recast the role or postpone the film all together.

Whatever the specific reason for Penn's departure, let him take a break. Plus, he's got two projects already in post-production: "The Tree of Life" and "Fair Game." He'll be back, I'm sure...

Sean Penn may board Universal's 'Cartel'

Oscar-winning filmmaker Sean Penn is in negotiations to star in Universal's upcoming drama "Cartel."

According to Variety, the plot follows Ed Marker, who embarks on a dangerous mission to protect his son after his wife is killed in the world of Mexican cartels.

Asger Leth ("Ghosts of Cité Soleil") is directing a script by Peter Craig. The trade said the project was originally planned as a remake of "La scorta," a 1993 Italian flick.

Penn was last seen in "Milk," for which he received an Oscar. He's got several other projects in development, including Terrence Malick's "The Tree of Life" and possibly Doug Liman's Valerie Plame drama "Fair Game."

"Cartel" may head into production this summer. The project marks Leth's feature film debut.