One of the most iconic films in cinematic history is getting a modern remake by a highly respected writer and director.
A new adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo is in the works, and screenwriter Steven Knight admits he feels like “an idiot” for taking on the challenge of reimagining such a beloved classic.
Released in 1958, this psychological thriller is regarded as one of Hitchcock’s greatest achievements and one of the finest films ever made.
Because of its legendary status, Vertigo has long been considered untouchable, with many believing no remake could ever match the original’s brilliance. That perception is being tested, as Steven Knight, the creator of Peaky Blinders, is stepping up to take on the ambitious project.
Steven Knight Calls Himself “An Idiot” for Tackling Vertigo Remake
Writer Steven Knight openly admitted that taking on the challenge of remaking Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo feels daunting—even joking that he must be “an idiot” for attempting it.
Knight was asked about the project’s status in an exclusive interview with The Direct’s Russ Milheim while promoting his Disney+ series A Thousand Blows. At the interview, he said the film was still “swirling around in [his] head.”
The Direct:
“It was reported in 2023 that you had signed on for a Vertigo remake. Is that project still in development with Robert Downey Jr.?”
Steven Knight:
“It’s swirling around in my head as we speak.”
Knight acknowledged the enormity of the task, calling Vertigo “the best film ever made” and admitting that adapting it was a near-impossible challenge.
“I’m having flashbacks to about an hour ago when I was writing,” he added. “People consider it the best film ever made. So you’d have to be an idiot to adapt it—and that’s what I am.”
A Complex Puzzle Worth Solving
Knight became publicly attached to the Vertigo remake in March 2023, but even two years later, the script remains a work in progress. He compared the process to “diffusing a World War II time bomb,” highlighting the story’s intricate structure.
“But, I like stuff like that,” he said. “It’s just so weird to try and do it. Taking that plot apart is like diffusing a World War II time bomb. It’s all over the place—very complex—but it’s what’s occupying my waking hours.”
The remake is set to be distributed by Paramount and will star Robert Downey Jr. in the role of John “Scottie” Ferguson, originally played by James Stewart in the 1958 classic. Downey Jr. also produces the film alongside Susan Downey, John Davis & John Fox of Predator fame.
Will Knight See It Through?
Despite the excitement surrounding the remake, updates have been scarce—though Knight’s comments confirm that work is actively underway. However, whether he remains fully committed depends on his increasingly packed schedule.
The Peaky Blinders movie, which Knight recently finished writing, is set to debut later this year on Netflix. Meanwhile, his BBC war drama SAS: Rogue Heroes is rumored to return for a third season, which could pull his attention away from Vertigo.
Although he recently stepped away from a New Jedi Order Star Wars film, Knight has remained one of Hollywood’s busiest screenwriters. Right now, however, he seems to have a relatively open window—which might just be the perfect opportunity to finish the Vertigo remake script finally.
