With a potential writers strike looming, studios may be looking down a slew of projects in the weeks ahead, as they to avoid any disruption to their content flow. So it means that high profile projects are getting a sharper eye, and more meetings are taking place, as no one wants to be left without something to put into production while writers and Hollywood hash out a new deal. And two very high profile projects are making the rounds.
First up, Natalie Portman is attached to star in “Bronco Belle” from “The Fits” director Anna Rose Holmer. The movie will spin a “Rocky“-esque story about a female bull rider trying to make it in a male dominated field, which sounds pretty intriguing. And having already paired up with Holmer on a music video for James Blake, it’s clear Portman has found a nice creative groove with Holmer.
Next, Johnny Depp is swinging into “King Of The Jungle.” The movie by “Ed Wood” writers Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski will tell the wild true story of computer virus magnate John McAfee, who was accused of murder, went off the grid in Brazil, and became a drug dealer, among another wild exploits. His story was detailed in the documentary “Gringo: The Dangerous Life of John McAfee,” but it’s pretty cinematic stuff. Glenn Ficarra and John Requa (“Focus, “Crazy Stupid Love“) are attached to direct.
Compelling stuff, and it’ll be interesting to see if these projects land deals soon.