Normally known for reliable laugh generation in comedies such as the Jump Street films and Let’s Be Cops, Rob Riggle is changing the tone for a new job. He’s taking on a dramatic challenge for **Midnight Sun.
Scott Speer is on board to direct the movie, which will be loosely based on the 2006 Japanese drama Taiyô No Uta. The American version will focus on Katie (Bella Thorne), a 17-year-old who is forced to stay indoors because of her rare condition, one that means the slightest exposure to sunlight could be deadly. But a chance encounter with Charlie (Patrick Schwarzenegger) sparks a summer romance that, by necessity, must be enjoyed behind closed doors and windows or at night.
Riggle will be Katie’s father Jack, a compassionate sort who just wants the best for his daughter, even if she doesn’t always agree. Speer is starting the production up this week in Vancouver, working from Eric Kirsten’s script. As for Riggle’s comedy chops, they’ll next be on display in Hotel Transylvania 2, which flaps over here on Friday. He also has further animated offerings Hell And Back and Henchmen, neither of which have UK releases yet.