Gambler remake may have Wyatt, Wahlberg – because they know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em

Troubled remake of Karel Reisz’s 1974 flick “The Gambler” may have at last found a director, according to Deadline.

Martin Scorsese had originally been courted as a potential director for the film, with Leonardo DiCaprio in talks to start in the film at the time; however, Scorsese has since detached himself from the project, which has left several questions surrounding its development.

“The Hangover” director Todd Phillips was next in discussions to helm the project, but it now seems like Rupert Wyatt (”Rise of the Planet of the Apes”) may find himself in the director’s chair. Although no formal offer has been made, the studio is keen to keep Wyatt involved – with rumours now swirling that he might be asked to direct “Star Trek 3” if “The Gambler” doesn’t work out.

“The Gambler” is described as a crime drama that follows a literature professor who develops a gambling addiction and finds himself in a rather difficult state of affairs with his mother, his girlfriend and some devious gangster types. This version has been scripted by William Monahan and has yet to begin filming, with casting and even the director so up-in-the-air at this stage.

Hollywood hottie Mark Wahlberg (”2 Guns”) looks like he might also land the role originally played by James Caan.