'Bourne' Director Doug Liman to Helm MTV Pilot

In a successful career full of head-scratching moves, Doug Liman's next project almost sounds like a prank -- but it's not. The man who directed 'Swingers,' 'The Bourne Identity,' 'The O.C.' pilot and 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' has signed on to direct a scripted half-hour comedy-drama pilot for MTV called 'I Just Want My Pants Back.' In addition, he'll helm the pilot for a new reality show on A&E called 'The Unexplained,' which will examine real-life paranormal activity.

Here are the reasons it sounds like a joke: First, well, just read it again. Second, MTV hasn't done a project like this since 2002's 'Undressed.' Third, the title sounds like a sequel to 'Dude, Where's My Car?' Fourth, MTV has banked so much on their reality programming, why the change of heart now? Fifth, MTV is notorious for not paying very much, so how are they paying for Liman?

Here are the reasons it's not a joke. First, Liman seeks a wide range of projects. Right now, he's an executive producer on 'Covert Affairs.' Second, it's based on the popular book of the same name by David Rosen. Third, NBC was developing it first. Fourth, 'Jersey Shore's' success gives MTV a little wiggle room to experiment and pay for a new things, and the network's scripted series, 'The Hard Times of RJ Berger,' has done well enough to earn a second season. Fifth, 'The Hangover' is still popular and this has a similar premise.

Will it be any good? The author wrote the pilot, and while he can pen a good book, he's never had anything produced on TV. However, most things Liman directs turn out to be at least fun, if not good.