Interview: Arthur's Presents a World that's Fun to Get Away to

By Michael Lopez

Just the fact that Warner Bros. picked Jason Winer to helm Russell Brand’s new Arthur movie scores them some major bonus points. As a director and producer on the series Modern Family, it’s clear that he knows how to deliver great comedic performances. For Arthur, he’s right on track to continue that trend, as he explained to Tr3s at a press conference for the film.

“Arthur’s world is an escapist one,” Winer explained. “And in tough times, we wanted to present a world that was fun to get away to.”

Escapist is putting it lightly. As one of New York’s wealthiest playboys, Arthur’s daily regimen includes rides in the Batmobile, posh penthouse parties, and an endless amount of expensive toys. Keeping the out-of-control billionaire in line falls to the duties of Hobson, the nanny (played by Oscar-winning actress Helen Mirren).

“The idea of 35 year-old man, let alone Russell Brand, with a nanny was delicious,” Jason explained. “It felt original.”

Of course, Arthur’s world is actually not an original concept. Based on a 1981 film of the same name, this updated Arthur has several new creative twists, which set it apart from the earlier version. Jason admitted that at first, he was nervous about taking on a reboot.

“I was skeptical about remaking Arthur. It was one of my favorite movies as a kid. When they came to me with the idea of remaking it, I was like why? Then they told me they were getting Russell and I thought if there was one actor to give it a fresh slant, it was him.”

And judging by the trailer alone, Russell is certainly taking ownership of the role. If you ask this writer, the idea of mixing a wild billionaire, Modern Family, and Luis Guzmán in an extra tight Robin suit, sounds very fresh and very funny.

Are you a fan of the original Arthur? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Arthur, Exclusive Entrevistas, Hellen Mirren, Jason Winer, luis guzman, Movies & CineMás, Russell Brand