A FAST BUCK

Al Capone would have admired Bob Hoskins. He might not have liked how Hoskins ran his Mob in “The Long Good Friday” if not how he nailed the Mob in “Mona Lisa.” But he’d have liked the actor’s ability to make a quick buck.

That is, Hoskins was hired to play Capone in director Brian De Palma’s remaking of “The Untouchables,” now shooting in Chicago. According to Hoskins’ Hollywood agent, J. Michael Bloom, the deal was set around Aug. 15: “Bob was here at the end of May to promote ‘Mona Lisa.’ He met with Brian at that time and was offered the role.”

Hoskins took his family on vacation to Yugoslavia, figuring to go to theChicago location in October. We can only guess his surprise (since Hoskins was unavailable for comment) upon being told that old Godfather Robert De Niro was signed to replace him.

Said Bloom: “Brian and producer Art Linson just decided to sign De Niro. Bob had the role. I don’t think it will hurt his career because I have 17 film offers right now for Bob.” What did Paramount Pictures have to pay for Linson and De Palma’s change of mind? “Roughly $200,000,” said Bloom.