'Red' helmer for 'R.I.P.D.' adaptation?

Red helmer Robert Schwentke is in talks to direct Universal's proposed adaptation of R.I.P.D..

According to the Los Angeles Times, the studio is planning to shoot the Dark Horse Comics project next summer to coincide with a gap in lead actor Ryan Reynolds's schedule.

Created by Matt Lunsford, Lucas Marangon and Randy Emberlin in 2000, R.I.P.D. follows a recently murdered police officer who is given the chance to avenge his death in exchange for his services in 'divine law enforcement'.

McG was originally attached to direct the movie but backed out after signing on for the romantic comedy This Means War, starring Sam Worthington and Reese Witherspoon.

R.I.P.D. is scheduled for release in 2012.