It looks like master director Ang Lee will be bringing us the story of the man that brought us Woodstock. We get wind of this project thanks to the professionals at Variety:
James Schamus and Ang Lee will reunite on Focus Features’ “Taking Woodstock.” Lee will direct and Focus prexy Schamus will pen the comedy based on Elliot Tiber’s memoir “Taking Woodstock: A True Story of a Riot, Concert, and a Life,” co-written with author Tom Monte. Set during the politically turbulent summer of ’69, story follows an Everyman working at his parents’ motel in the Catskills who inadvertently sets in motion what would become the generation-defining concert.
“Elliot’s exuberant and heartfelt story is a perfect window onto the Woodstock experience,” Schamus said. “It explores an inspiring historical moment when liberation and freedom were in the air.” The pic will have one lead, based on Tiber, and a colorful ensemble. Speculation about original or period music was not confirmed, though the film is assuredly not going to be about the famed concert itself.
This is a cool idea for a film. Everyone knows what Woodstock is, but to show the day to day, hum drum life of the creator reminds us of how powerful a good idea can be. This legendary event was conceived in the mind of a regular joe, probably daydreaming to pass the time at his parent’s business. Every idea is a seed that may grow into something bigger than you could have ever imagined. This is a fantastic message, and one that should prove to be quite motivational in the right hands.
And Lee is a glorious dramatic director, and I think this film is a perfect fit for him. He should stay away from comic book films for the rest of his life; but drama is his lady, and I love to watch them dance.
Production for this film is scheduled for the end of this year, and we will be sure to get you the updates as the project develops.
