I grew up with the 3 Stooges on the TV almost constantly, or maybe it just seemed that way. I never thought they were funny, but I had four brothers who did and still do. I think it's a guy thing. Nevertheless, this is one franchise that should stand on it's own. These four brothers (Moe, Shep, Curly and Larry) were products of their time, the poor man's Marx Brothers, I always thought. But judging from the loyalty of their fans, they were not second fiddle to anyone.

To my mind there's only two ways to go with a modern take on this act, either it will loose all of its innocence and go out and out for offensive humor, or it will jump the shark with ignorant humor. I wonder, is Mel Gibson in any way involved in the impetus for this remake? He's a huge 3 Stooges fan and he's got the money and influence to make it happen.

@Patricia: You forgot Joe! Joe Besser stepped in after Shemp died for a year or two. I'd like to see two Stooge movies using the same actors: a based on true story biopic, and an original feature length stooge movie.

I don't know if we need a movie, but I wouldn't mind seeing the old CBS shows again. Might make good counter programming to Leno at 10. It could (never) happen.

And Mel Gibson would be a perfect Moe, Benicio can be Shemp. Giamatti seems more like a Curly, with his range of facial expressions.

@GregM: Yes, indeed I did forget Joe. He was so forgettable, poor guy. And I don't think he was an actual brother but just a port in the storm. And let us not forget Curly-Joe who was there at the end on TV. (Sorry about spelling Shemp's name wrong.)

I'd love to see a really good bio of this group. I once read a little blurb written by Moe's (real name Moses Howard) son who said his dad was very soft spoken and gentle. He once accidently struck his son when the son was approaching his father to help him with his homework. Moe went to turn and didn't realize his son had moved to his side. He said Moe held him and wept with horror.

No one would watch this if it were a straightforward bio. If it were some kinda dark, twisted, comedy, hoewever? I think Stooges fans might be upset, but yeah, folks would go to watch that. At least once, twice, if it was actually funny. Low budget, with a certain built in niche fanbase, yeah I think they'll not only make it, but it'll probably offensive as hell, thereby scarring actual 3 Stooges-philes (what's their fanboy term?).