“La La Land” and “Whiplash” director Damien Chazelle has, in a very short time, made a big name for himself as a filmmaker. Now, every project he creates will be automatically near the top of everyone’s “Must See” list. So, naturally, its exciting to see when he surrounds himself with some great actors for his upcoming film “First Man,” which tells the story of Neil Armstrong’s moon landing with Ryan Gosling attached as Armstrong.
Now, according to Deadline, Kyle Chandler has signed up to portray Deke Slayton, a WWII pilot, aeronautical engineer, and test pilot who was picked to be part of the Mercury Seven astronauts. However, before he could make the flight, he was diagnosed with a medical condition and wasn’t able to take part. Chandler is perhaps best known for his long stint on the show “Friday Night Lights,” but has most recently been part of the Netflix drama “Bloodline.”
Also joining the cast is Corey Stoll, according to Variety. Stoll is in talks to play the legendary Buzz Aldrin in the film. Of all the astronauts from that era, Aldrin is perhaps the best known, still in the public eye decades after the moon landing. Stoll had a breakout role in “House of Cards” before his villainous turn in Marvel Studio’s “Ant-Man.”
Lastly, THR reveals that Jason Clarke (“Terminator Genisys,” “Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes“) is suiting as well, playing the first American to walk in space, Ed White.
“First Man” is Chazelle’s first time directing a film that he hasn’t written. “Spotlight” writer Josh Singer penned the script, which is based on the James Hansen biography, “First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong.” No word yet on how much this change will affect the amount of jazz in the film, but odds are there will be some, as Chazelle sure does enjoy his jazz.
“First Man” is scheduled to be released October 12, 2018.