Russell Crowe and Beyonce to lead ‘A Star is Born’ remake?

[HMG] – In Hollywood’s ongoing quest to make money for nothing, their plans to remake ‘A Star is Born’ are nearing completion, and Russell Crowe and Beyoncé are in line as the leads.

Warners plans for a do-over on the title [which has already been a movie three times] have been bubbling for years, with no less than four screenwriters attempting to re-tell the story. But Nick Cassavetes [who directed 'The Notebook' in 2004] is now in talks to direct, so this time it could actually happen.

Sean Penn and Robert Downey Jr. were among several names the studio wanted as the male star, but 45-year old Russell is now said to be their main target. And he’s reportedly keen to accept.

Beyoncé, meanwhile, has been the main choice as the female lead for quite a while, according to the Times. And if she lands it, that would give Warners the first interracial romance since Whitney Houston smooched Kevin Costner in 1992′s ‘The Bodyguard’ – which they also produced.

In this fourth re-tread of the tale, Russ would play an aging, alcoholic musician who becomes a mentor to – and learns a great deal from – a far younger female star. And at the fade-out, they end up in love.

For now, Russell’s next outing is Ridley Scott’s version of Robin Hood – due to open in May – where he takes on the challenge of trying to act in the luminous presence of Cate Blanchett as Maid Marian without losing his mind.

No actor’s that good.

There’s no date for release, or even production of ‘Star’ yet, and even the contracts have not been signed. But if Warners ever gets to actually roll film on this thing, we’ll bring you the news…