There have been some stunning dramatic performances from actors known for comedy: Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler, and even Will Ferrell. With roles in movies like STRANGER THAN FICTION, EVERYTHING MUST GO, and WINTER PASSING, Ferrell has shown his prowess for more than dick jokes. Teaming with acclaimed filmmaker Lasse Halstrom, Ferrell is going to bring his acting chops to the comedy-drama TOM’S DAD.
Announced at Cannes, TOM’S DAD is slated to begin production early next year. None of the supporting cast has been announced yet, the new film is being billed as a comedy but sounds more like a heartfelt drama, a genre Hallstrom is known for.
Set in 1960s Nevada, Arthur (Ferrell) is a struggling nightclub performer hoping to make it big with his stage act involving circus animals. He is forced to reconnect with his estranged 12-year old son, Tom, when his ex-wife departs on a three week trip, leaving the pair to rekindle their father-son relationship.
The Oscar-nominated Hallstrom has not worked primarily in comedy and is best known for films like WHAT’S EATING GILBERT GRAPE, CHOCOLAT, THE CIDER HOUSE RULES, and the underrated HACHI: A DOG’S TALE. In recent years he has directed the Nicholas Sparks film DEAR JOHN and SAFE HAVEN. His most recent film is the modest hit THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY starring Helen Mirren.
Personally, I think we are going to see Will Ferrell win an Academy Award at some point. He has clearly shown he is more than just a funny guy but has yet to find the right project to showcase his talents. Maybe TOM’S DAD will be that showcase.
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