Ghostbusters 3 has shown rejuvenated signs of life over the past few months, and now the project - which has been in some form of development for around two decades now - may actually be moving forward.

Sony Pictures has reportedly sent out a casting call to Los Angeles and Chicago actors for the third Ghostbusters, which apparently could begin production by May 2011.

Here's the unofficial description of The Office writers Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnitsky's screenplay for Ghostbusters 3 (via Feature Film Auditions):

A ragtag group of paranormal researchers reopen their notorious ghost removal service, and a new generation of Ghostbusters is brought on board to be green slimed and trained to contain the mischievous spirits.

The Ghostbusters 3 script has apparently been fine-tuned and "handed over to Dan Aykroyd," which seems to fit with the news that, despite his recent comments to the contrary, the screenplay is NOT being actually rewritten by the comedic actor after all.

While franchise stars Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, and Signourney Weaver are all listed as members of the Ghostbusters 3 cast, actress Anna Faris (the Scary Movie series) is is listed as a star of the flick as well. There's no information about her role in the pic, but, assuming that this IS legitimate (and, considering the project's history, it's impossible not to be skeptical), we should find out more about her part in the near future.

Ivan Reitman is listed as being back in the director's chair for the Ghostbuster's third outing, which we can only hope will be a return to form for the Oscar-nominated filmmaker, who has been at the helm of only three films over the past decade, including the so-so comedy Evolution; the painfully unfunny My Super Ex-Girlfriend; and next January's rom-com, No Strings Attached.

The "passing the torch to a new generation" storyline of Ghostbusters 3 seems like a risky proposition, given what a pivotal role the onscreen chemistry between Aykroyd, Ramis, and Murray played in the success of Ghostbusters. It's difficult to envision a whole new crew of comedic talents being brought in for a third film and being able to recapture the sly humor of the original. Plus, is there anyone out there who's mastered the art of deadpan like Murray?

Bill Murray calls Ghostbusters 3 a total crock

Sony Pictures is aiming to release Ghostbusters 3 in theaters by Christmas 2012. Do you think they'll actually keep to that date this time around?

Source: Sony Pictures (via Feature Film Auditions)