His lifetime estimated global box office gross in a writing capacity is $4.8B[0]. I think "hack" may be how you see him, but the world sees otherwise. Also, he didn't credit himself as TDK's writer (screen for Begins, story for the others), the studio did. And if you think that's an easy feat, you're sorely mistaken. It's a hell of a lot easier to write an entire screenplay and not get credited than it is to not write on a project and get credited. That's why arbitration is such a big deal for professional screenwriters.

Further, Josh Friedman is a dyed in the wool sci-fi geek, hilarious guy, and great writer. I have a lot more faith than you that this might work.

Also, Goyer wrote Dark City, a sci-fi classic that tragically slipped under the radar.

Full disclosure: I work in the industry and know Josh and know a ton of people that have worked with David, but I've only met him in passing.

[0] http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Writer&id=da...