"Chicago's" Marshall to Direct Screen Musical "Nine"
Wanda Leibowitz
- Published Content: 365
- Total Views: 1,521,629
- Favorited By: 67 CPs
Rob Marshall Will Helm a Silver Screen Adaptation of the 1982 Broadway Smash
Director Rob Marshall ("Chicago") has signed on to direct a feature film adaptation of the Broadway smash "Nine," spokespeople for the film's production company said today. Marshall is also set to cThe musical "Nine," set in 1960s-era Venice, is based on Frederico Fellini's film "8 1/2," a classic of international cinema. Fellini's 1963 work, which many consider to the be the high point of the Italian auteur's career, tells the semi-autobiographical story of a middle-aged director who struggles to break through his creative block, looking back on his career and on the parade of women who he loves.
"Nine" had a successful 729 performance run on Broadway after its Tony-award studded debut in 1982, and has gained a strong cult following since. The central role of Guido Contini was created onstage by Raul Julia ("The Addams Family.")
A 2003 revival attracted A-list acting talent to the stage, including Antonio Banderas as Contini, and the legendary Chita Rivera. John Stamos and Eartha Kitt served as replacements later in the run. The revival won Tony honors for Best Revival of a Musical, and supporting player Jane Krakowski ("Ally McBeal," "30 Rock") took home a Tony statuette for Best Featured Actress.
The musical's book and lyrics are by Arthur Kopit, and the work's composer is Maury Yeston. Both Kopit and Yeston were involved in selling the rights for the film to Weinstein Co, and the pair are set to be credited as Executive Producers on the project.
"Variety" reports that the film will be produced by Lucamar Productions in collaboration with the Weinstein Company. Lucamar is run by Marshall and DeLuca. Producer Harvey Weinstein, the head of Wienstein Co. and the former chief of Miramax, has previously teamed up with Marshall on "Chicago."
Representatives for the Weinstein Co. told reporters that they were not yet ready to announce a screenwriter for the adaptation, but that an official statement would be made soon.