I'm so excited that Sam Sarkar has spoken up about DS! He is the head of development at Johnny's production company and seems to tell it straight. I was a little surprised that he hedged a bit on whether Tim Burton would direct. Maybe the deal's not set in stone yet and as an official spokesman, he can't say. Nicki Finke of Deadline Hollywood Daily usually has good sources, and she says it's definitely Tim but that Tim's busy with Alice In Wonderland. Hmm. Alice will be released next March so I hope it won't be delayed that long. The best part is that Sarkar hints that an announcement may come very soon. Hopefully that will clear things up!
Having never seen a frame of the 2004 pilot, I'd absolutely love if they could include it as a DVD extra!
As for Oscar chances, I'd seriously doubt DS could be up for any of the major awards, but I could see it being nominated for things like set design, costume design, and makeup if it's worthy (and I sure hope it would be!!). Maybe effects, too, though I am kind of hoping that it won't be an effects-heavy film.