The idea of adapting Milton‘s 17th century classic work “Paradise Lost” holds pretty much zero appeal for us, particularly when the script seems have been cobbled together by a committee of writers with Stuart Hazeldine, Byron Willinger, Philip de Blasi, Lawrence Kasdan and Ryan Condal all having taken their pens to the screenplay throughout the development process. However, it will have Bradley Cooper playing the devil which should be interesting at least. First announced last fall and moving slowly but steadily ever since, with Cooper talking to Charlie Rose about how he was cast in the movie back in May, everything is now officially moving forward.
Ausfilm announced that director Alex Proyas will bring the “Paradise Lost” production to Sydney for what will be a massive production featuring 20 weeks of pre-production, eight weeks of principal photography and 72 weeks of post-production. While 3D was touted as a possibility for the picture early on, there is no mention of the glasses wearing format in this announcement, however, the film will still be a visual spectacle, as Proyas plans on doing motion-capture on the film (cue the cries of “Dead eyes!). The story will focus on the epic battle between Michael and Lucifer that will include aerial warfare in some shape or form.
No exact starting date has been mentioned, but considering the post-production alone will take over a year, we’d wager Cooper will be hitting Expedia to look at flights to Sydney before 2011 is through. While Proyas has never really lived up to the promise he showed with “Dark City” this production will certainly allow his imagination to run wild with plenty of opportunity to flex his creative muscles, so we’re ready to be impressed. And as for Cooper, it’s hands down his biggest role yet and a major test if he can carry a tentpole on his own in a role that will likely see him shedding his prep school schtick that has carried him this far. Lots of cards on the table for this one, and we’ll be interested to see how it all pulls together.
