Raise your hand if you saw this one coming... Now put it down again, because you’ll need it to beat out the flames coming from your pants, you liar. But ‘tis true: Clint Eastwood is apparently lining up to direct and produce the new version of A Star Is Born,which still has Beyonce attached to play a rising performer who falls for – and is mentored by – a legend whose career is on the wane and steeped in alcohol.
The story’s an old one, and has been passed down through various movies, including William Wellman’s 1937 drama and what currently stands as its most famous incarnation, the 1954 musical starring Judy Garland as the ingénue, which George Cukor directed. Oh, and not forgetting (though some try to) the 1976 Barbra Streisand/Kris Kristofferson effort.
According to Deadline, Warner Bros. handed Will Fetters' script to Eastwood, who agreed to make the film as a future project. This version will be set in the world of music, with Beyonce in place and a yet-to-be-named performer as her older rock star inspiration and lover. The likes of Will Smith and Jon Hamm have been linked to that role, but with Eastwood behind the camera, this is sure to explode into one of the most sought-after roles on the books. Assuming, of course, Clint doesn’t already have someone in mind.
He’s gearing up to start making J Edgar next month, and will apparently look to kick off on Star later in the year. A Clint Eastwood musical? Consider the possibilities!