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Commercials director Michael Gracey will direct a biopic on legendary musician Elton John, according to Deadline.
“Rocketman”, based on a script by Lee Hall, will follow “John’s journey from 5-year old musical prodigy who by age 11 won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music, to a young man who rebelled against his strict upbringing, wore outrageous costumes and became a global icon who teamed with songwriter Bernie Taupin to sell more records that just about any musical artist of his era.”
“Michael has an innovative, imaginative and compelling vision for the film,” said Rocket CEO Steve Hamilton Shaw. “We want to create an experience that surprises and moves audiences and knew immediately that he was the perfect director to take them on this journey.”
Gracey, who is also attached to direct a remake of “The Greatest Show on Earth” with Hugh Jackman attached to star, will insert choreographed musical sequences into the film built around some of John’s biggest hits.
“Everyone knows and loves Elton John’s music, but the true story of his life is so incredible that it can only be described as a fantasy,” Gracey said. “His journey from impossible dreamer to stardom and uncontrollable excess is something only a musical film can capture, and I’m so excited to be the one to tell his story.”
The search is now underway to find an actor to play John, whose many hits include “I’m Still Standing”, “Heartache all Over the World”, “Goodbye Yellow Brick-road”, “Crocodile Rock” and “Sacrifice”.
