Well, it sounds like Buckaroo Banzai: The Series is joining Green Hornet, Fletch Won, Mallrats 2, Hit Somebody, and retirement among the many things Kevin Smith has talked about doing but won’t actually do.
In a Facebook video posted Monday, Smith announced that he’s “no longer involved” in the TV adaptation of The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension he was revealed to be developing back in May.
The change of heart comes following the news earlier on Monday that MGM was suing the original film’s writer and director—Earl Mac Rauch and W.D. Richter, respectively—over the duo’s claim that they, not the studio, control the rights to the characters.
“This is not what I signed up for,” Smith said amid a video that, true to the director’s signature form, was way too wordy at over 18 minutes. “This legal thing came out of nowhere. I did not know about this.
“The only reason I love Buckaroo Banzai is because of [Rauch and Richter],” Smith continued, adding, “I don’t want to make anything unless those dudes are involved.
“Respectfully, to all parties involved, I’m out.”
While these billowing jean shorts have shuffled away from the project, it remains unclear whether MGM will pursue further development or legal action.
