Of the various Keatons of the world, it might surprise some to learn that this particular story isn’t about the one playing Batman. In fact, the Keaton enjoying the spotlight today may be arguably the most historically significant person to carry that surname. That’s right, a certain stone-faced film legend himself is getting his own biopic, and not a moment too soon.
Michael Keaton’s return to the character of Batmanmay be fresh in the minds of many as his upcoming appearances inBatgirlandThe Flashhave earned plenty of buzz. But today’s focus goes solely on silent film star Buster Keaton, who will be the subject of a new biopic in the works fromIndiana Jones 5director James Mangold. Apparently, directing one of the most anticipated films of the foreseeable future wasn’t enough for Mangold, and now he wants to give a cinema icon some respect.
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According to Deadline, Mangold is working with20th Century Studiosto create a film based on the life and career of Joseph Frank “Buster” Keaton,whose daring stunt workand energetic performances are still considered things of legend in the movie industry. The movie will be based on the biographyBuster Keaton: Cut to the Chaseby Marion Meade, hopefully boosting the legacy of the beloved star of classic cinema for modern audiences. Executives are reportedly meeting with writers to adapt the book now, as the Buster Keaton biopic is said to be top priority for the studio.
Keaton’s work in the movie industry is still considered some of the most influential when it comes to stunts and physical comedy. Even if someone nowadays doesn’t know his name, odds are they’ve stumbled across one of his famous scenes in some sort of compilation videoor random Reddit post. One such instance includes a ride on the front of an actual steam train inThe General, which is enough to stop the heart of any worry-prone viewer.
But perhaps his most iconic stunt comes fromSteamboat Bill, Jr., which saw him standing idle in front of a falling building facade that only misses him because he fits through the building’s open window. Stories say that even the movie’s crew had to avert their eyes during this particular stunt. All that is only the smallest taste of what Keaton accomplished throughout his film career, and the upcoming biopic is sure to offer some fascinating insight into these heart-stopping moments.
Director Mangold, who is currently stillworking with Harrison Ford onIndiana Jones 5, has his own enviable film history as well. Aside from the upcoming sequel, he’s also directed several highly-regarded productions including the Johnny Cash biographical dramaWalk The Line,Ford v Ferrari, and evenLogan. So he’s clearly up to the task of delving into the gritty character details while not skimping on the breathtaking set pieces that would be absolutely essential in any retelling of Keaton’s story. Here’s hoping things get underway soon.
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