Freddy Mercury was one of the most powerful singer/songwriters the world has ever seen. He was also the first famous person that I knew who died of AIDS. His life will now be made into a biopic, it’s about time. The people over at cinematical.com give us this:
Guitarist Brian May of the rock band Queen has announced that a biopic of lead singer Freddie Mercury is on the way, according to a report from BANG Media International. Mercury, who died of AIDS in 1991, was famous for his raging vocal prowess, able to roar through a metal tune as hard as Motorhead, or warble a high falsetto that could turn opera singers green with envy.
It will be tough to fill Mercury’s onscreen shoes, but according to May, several actors have already expressed interest. “There is a film in the pipeline and we’re all involved in it. I’m not allowed to say much about it and casting isn’t finalized but we’ve had some incredible offers to play Freddie. Really incredible,” said May to the UK’s Daily Express.
Queen found a new audience in 1992 when the film Wayne’s World incorporated the song “Bohemian Rhapsody” into a memorable head-banging sequence.
This is great news. The fact that stars are already lining up to play Freddy is even better. This man’s life was amazing, tragic, beautiful, perfect for a movie. Not known to many he is also the world’s first Persian/Indian rock star. The score for this film is going to amazing I bet, and I’ll be first in line to buy the soundtrack.
Casting for Freddy is absolutely key. Billy Crudup would be good (since Almost Famous we know he can pull of facial hair). Speaking of Almost famous Jason Lee might do good if he is willing to stretch his acting chops just a bit. Cillian Murphy from 28 Days Later also has a hip vibe that could fit well in Mercury’s shoes. ANd there is always the possiblilty of a fabulous andunknown actor kicking butt.
Whoever they get has his work cut out for him. Mercury was a very complex person, and the pressure to get this role right is going to be even higher than the notes that Freddy sang.
