Sheep’s Clothing?

Is “Ashes to Ashes”--now filming in Canada--really “Friday the 13th Part VIII,” which had been scheduled to shoot there? Robert Hedden has been announced as the writer-director for both pictures. In the past, Paramount has downplayed its connection to the profitable, low-budget gore series--sometimes using alias titles for “Friday” sequels.

A source close to the film swears that “Ashes” is the latest in Jason’s bloody adventures. But a spokesman for producer Frank Mancuso Jr. insists they are two separate movies: “The fact that Rob Hedden has been announced for (both films) is just coincidence.”

Last year’s “Part VII” was shot as “Birthday Bash.” “VI” was briefly called “Aladdin Sane”--before being discovered.