I have always liked Ben Stiller comedies. He has a real likable kind of personality to him and he really knows how to make you like his characters. Now that he has moved to the fancy director’s chair we might see less of him on screen, but still enjoy his talents.
Now it seems he is taking a step outside his comfort zone as he is being considered to direct a drama.
Ben Stiller is in early talks to direct The Trial of the Chicago 7, the DreamWorks project about the 1968 riots at the Democratic convention and their aftermath.
A “Chicago” gig would mark a departure for Stiller, who has directed such successful comedies as Tropic Thunder and Zoolander, but has not helmed a serious political picture of this kind before.
Opposite to the way I have little expectation from a popstar becoming an actor, I think actor to director is a logical step. You don’t manage the Mooby’s without flipping a few burgers first.
Stiller appears to have made that transition rather well, and this may be a challenge for him as his strength is obviously in comedy. But you don’t go anywhere by standing still. I applaud his efforts to broaden his craft and I have a lot of respect for him.
As we keep an eye out for development one of my favourite BBC Comedies was Ricky “the Office” Gervais’ show Extras. So I thought I would share with you a clip of Ben Stiller’s appearance where he spoofs himself directing a serious war drama. Enjoy!
