Abrams Directing a Spielberg Project?

New York Magazine's Vulture blog suggests that J.J. Abrams next directing project will be collaboration with Steven Spielberg, who will likely executive produce the film. The untitled film, written by Abrams, is "“a tip of the hat to [Spielberg’s] movies of the 70’s and early 80’s.” This potential directing effort should not be confused with Mission: Impossible IV, Morning Glory, Fringe and Undercovers which are projects he produces but isn't directing.

Our sources tell us that Abrams is in discussions with Spielberg, and insist the DreamWorks co-founder will be involved in some capacity, whether as an executive producer or at least as an adviser, since “J.J. wants to make sure Steven is properly paid homage to. This is really an interpretation of some of Spielberg’s earlier films, but done in a personal way.”

“It’s kind of the anti-Avatar,” explained one source, “Not that [J.J.] doesn’t love that movie or special effects movies - he has a real facility for effects. But he really wants to make this, and the way to do that is to be fiscally responsible.”

Abrams probably will never confirm this story considering his love of secrets but TrekMovie points out it is plausible. Months ago Abrams had indicated that part of the reason he decided to produce M:I4 instead of direct was because he was working a script that he was interested in directing. In additional, a "fiscally responsible" project is unlikely to have a long post-production time which will give him plenty of time to direct the film, put it the can and begin pre-production for Star Trek 2. With all the balls in the air Abrams has, there is no telling how this could shake out until either a press release confirms it or he is behind the cameras giving orders.