The Bulletin: Tobey Maguire and 'Robotech'

First, Michael Bay's "Transformers." Then, Fox's announcement to develop "Voltron: Defender of the Universe." Now, Warner Bros. will develop "Robotech," an adaptation of the epic Japanese TV series in which robotic sentinels defend Earth against massive waves of invasions from outer space, with Tobey Maguire to possibly star as a savior pilot, reports The Hollywood Reporter. "We are very excited to bring 'Robotech' to the big screen," Maguire said. "There is a rich mythology that will be a great foundation for a sophisticated, smart and entertaining film." Drew Crevello and Maguire will produce, and Craig Zahler will write the script. Frank Agrama will executive produce.

Polanski Leaps From 'Pompeii'
The immortal Roman Polanski ("The Pianist," "Chinatown," "Knife in the Water") will no longer direct the $130 million effects behemoth "Pompeii," an adaptation of Robert Harris' novel about the catastrophic volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., reports Screen Daily, due to conflicts in Polanski's schedule and indefinite production delays due to concerns of a strike. "I put a lot of work and energy into the development of Pompeii, so it is not without regret that I have to decline my further involvement," Polanski told Screen Daily. Alain Sarde and Robert Benmussa will seek a replacement director.

Hudson to Star in 'Sex and the City'
Jennifer Hudson ("Dreamgirls") will star as Carrie Bradshaw's assistant in Darren Star's "Sex and the City: The Movie," reports Variety. Hudson joins Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis and Chris Noth. Michael Patrick King, executive producer of the television show, will direct for New Line Cinema and HBO. King will produce with Parker, John Melfi and Star. King wrote the script. Production will start in September in New York City.

Cheadle Books Room at 'Hotel'
Don Cheadle will star as a social worker in "Hotel for Dogs," an adaptation of Lois Duncan's 1971 children's novel in which two orphans hide a bunch of stray dogs in an desolate hotel, reports Variety. Thor Freudenthal will direct. Jeff Lowell wrote the script. Jon Gordon, Lauren Shuler Donner and Jack Leslie will produce. Emma Roberts ("Nancy Drew") co-stars. Production will start in November.

Mark Your Calendar
Michael Moore's "Sicko" (B+) will be available for rental and purchase Nov. 6.