EXCLUSIVE: 20th Century Fox, already undergoing seismic changes with Tom Rothman exiting at year end, might have a major director to replace on one of the studio’s most important flick franchises.

I’m hearing that Rupert Wyatt, who helmed the superb franchise reboot Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes, will leave the sequel.

I’m told that Wyatt’s exit is similar to the same reason that Gary Ross stepped out of Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

Wyatt didn’t feel comfortable making the May 23, 2014 release date that the studio announced in May.

Fox declined comment, but clearly something is going on.

This would be a blow to the studio, but Fox and Chernin Entertainment have such a big hit here that they can aim high for a new helmer.

The studio likes the script that Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver have turned in, and they are gearing up to make the date in a flick where the apes take over.The first flick turned out so well, grossing $483 million worldwide and seamlessly set up the apocalyptic sequel plotline.

As for Wyatt, he will have no trouble finding another flick to direct.

He’s attached to direct Agent 13 at Universal with Charlize Theron starring, and he was interested in the Warner Bros flick ...... See Complete Article @ Deadline Hollywood