A decade ago, the idea of Cate Blanchett teaming up with Ben Stiller to remake a somewhat silly ‘60s spy series into a feature film would have sounded ludicrous. However, over the last decade, Stiller has become a director that people really respect, especially when it comes to more dramatic fare, and Blanchett has been known to take roles that allow her to stretch her acting muscles in a different way than the typical prestige drama allows. (Just look at her deliciously over-the-top performance in “Thor: Ragnarok,” for example.) So, here we are, in 2021, with news that the two folks are combining forces for “The Champions.”
According to THR, Ben Stiller is set to co-star alongside Cate Blanchett in a feature film adaptation of the ‘60s sci-fi/spy series, “The Champions.” In addition to his acting duties, Stiller is also on board as the director of the film. As mentioned, “The Champions” is based on the series of the same name about two UN agents that find themselves imbued with superpowers and now are positioned as crimefighters.
“I’ve long wanted to work with Ben — the director and the actor,” said Blanchett. “He is one of the most engaged and versatile directors working today. Anyone who can make both ‘Zoolander’ and ‘Escape at Dannemora’ is a creative force to be reckoned with.”
READ MORE: ‘Zoolander’: Ben Stiller Says Jake Gyllenhaal Auditioned For Owen Wilson’s Hansel Role
Stiller added, “I’m a huge fan of Cate’s for a very long time. I’m hoping this project will help people to finally take her seriously as an actress.”
Cate Blanchett has been keeping busy lately, with starring roles in the upcoming “Nightmare Alley,” as well as the upcoming video game film adaptation, “Borderlands.” She’s also currently working on the newest film from acclaimed filmmaker Todd Field, titled “Tar.” Stiller is no slouch either, working on the upcoming Apple TV+ series, “Severance.”
No release date has been set for “The Champions.”
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