Key Takeaways:
– Director Paul Schrader announces plans to cast Kevin Spacey as Frank Sinatra in a biopic.
– Schrader’s project aims to challenge Cancel Culture, as Spacey was previously shunned due to harassment allegations from which he was cleared.
– The film could face potential challenges from studios avoiding controversial projects and stiff competition from a similar project by Martin Scorsese.
– Fans foresee failure for the project, given its controversial star and competition with Scorsese’s version.
Scorsese’s Sinatra Biopic Presents Stiff Competition
Acclaimed director Paul Schrader recently expressed defiance towards the prevalent Cancel Culture by revealing his intentions to cast Kevin Spacey in a Frank Sinatra biopic. However, his plan might not be well received by film studios wary of controversy. Moreover, Schrader’s vision of Frank Sinatra will be in direct competition with an already announced biopic directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
Schrader expressed indignation towards the shunning of Spacey by Hollywood following allegations in 2018. Nevertheless, the actor was cleared of said allegations in 2020. In an interview with Variety, Schrader defended his decision, asserting that Spacey’s proven talent merits work opportunities since he wasn’t convicted.
Can Schrader Bring Back Spacey to Mainstream Cinema?
Schrader’s plans have met with skepticism, as potential studio opposition isn’t his only concern. With Martin Scorsese also developing a Sinatra biopic, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the challenge to attract an audience is significant. Notably, Scorsese’s project also awaits approval from Tina Sinatra, the late singer’s daughter, who controls the usage of her father‘s name in official capacities.
Fans’ Response to Schrader’s Sinatra Biopic
Fans on social media have offered their take on Schrader’s controversial Sinatra project with Spacey, predicting its potential downfall. Photoshop and social media jokes aside, the primary skepticism revolves around the anticipation of studios’ reluctance, owing to Spacey’s reputation, to pick up the project. Some comments referenced Spacey’s age and status, alluding to him being less apt for the role compared to DiCaprio in Scorsese’s film.
Juxtaposing Scorsese’s and Schrader’s Sinatra Biopics
Adding fuel to the competitive fire, Scorsese is reported to have selected Jennifer Lawrence for the role of Ava Gardner, Sinatra’s second wife. Furthermore, many film studios are making efforts to secure Scorsese’s project. Variety speculates that Sony may be the leading contender to anchor the movie.
Upcoming Release – Oh, Canada
While Schrader’s Sinatra project attracts attention, fans and critics should note his new film, Oh, Canada, premiering at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2024. The film, based on the book of the same name by the late Russell Banks, stars Richard Gere and Jacob Elordi.
To Summarize
Paul Schrader’s bold move to choose Kevin Spacey for his Sinatra biopic is met with skepticism and resistance. His ambitious project collides with Hollywood’s Cancel Culture and the stiff competition from Martin Scorsese’s Sinatra movie. As Schrader introduces Spacey back into mainstream films, fans and critics watch closely, anticipating the potential conflicts and ramifications.
