Marc Forster to create trilogy from Stanly Kubrick’s script The Downslope

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

There's no question that Stanley Kubrick's way of filmmaking brought some serious attention to his films (and still do), and while kids these days may not get a chance to experience a new Kubrick film in theaters, it looks like they're going to get the next best thing. Director Marc Forster (WORLD WAR Z, QUANTUM OF SOLACE) is developing a film trilogy based on a 1956 screenplay written by Kubrick called THE DOWNSLOPE.

The story is being described as "a sweeping, historical action-drama" that will follow a series of Civil War battles between General George Custer and Confederate Colonel John Mosby. Mosby's cavalry was known to outsmart larger enemy forces and in turn, created a rivalry between him and Custer. The trilogy will also expand upon Kubrick's original story and follow characters in the post-war era as they confront the new frontier and their ambitions for tomorrow.

As was typical of Stanley Kubrick, the master filmmaker had spent years studying, developing and writing the story, which included maps and notes for when he would eventually (want to) shoot it. He evidently worked extensively with Civil War historian Shelby Foote on bringing what characters and events he could from history into his story.

As of now, Forster will only direct the first film in the series, but he will at least stay on as producer for the subsequent sequels. Forster hasn't exactly wowed audiences with his last few action features, but I think given a great script and the unencumberence of a PG-13 rating, Forster is capable of delivering a fantastic film. Either way, THE DOWNSLOPE should be a fascinating film to follow through development.

I would have loved to have seen Kubrick's take on this material, but another skilled director taking the reins is the next best thing.

Source: Deadline

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