First came Naomi Watts as a possible replacement for Tippi Hedren in that long-brewing remake of The Birds. Now a rumor straight from Metro.co.uk claims that George Clooney might play Mitch Bremner. It seems that the original Mitch, Rod Taylor, told the Daily Express: "I often cringe when I hear mention of remakes but I'll hold judgment, especially since I've been told Clooney's the favorite." To add to the displeasure, Tippi herself said: "Can't we find new stories, new things to do? Must you be so insecure that you have to take a film that's a classic and try to do it over?"

Good question, Ms. Hedren. I've been doubly anxious nauseous about the long-rumored The Birds remake ever since word hit that this incarnation might have the birds fighting back against our treatment of the environment. It just brings to mind Jaws: The Revenge mixed with the terrible Psycho remake. But all the time that has passed -- it seemed like a fleeting dream that would wonderfully die in development hell.

And Clooney? I like the guy every which way, but attaching his name to this project would really make me reconsider that statement. Luckily it's still deep in the rumor seas.