One ofTom Hanks' next film projects will beA Man Called Ove.According to Deadline, Hanks has been cast in the American adaptation of the 2015 Swedish comedy film.
Hanks will also be a producer for the film, along with Playtone partnerGary Goetzman. Hanks' previous work includes 1993’sPhiladelphia(directed byJonathan Demme) and 1994’sForrest Gump(directed byRobert Zemeckis), both of which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Some of his upcoming projects includePinocchio(directed by Zemeckis),Asteroid City(directed byWes Anderson), andBaz Luhrmann’s Elvisbiopic.
Just like the 2015 Swedish film, it will be based on the 2012 novel byFredrik Backman.Marc Forsterwill direct the film. Forster’s previous work includes 2013’sWorld War Z(starringBrad Pitt), 2007’sThe Kite Runner(starringKhalid AbdallaandZekeria Ebrahimi), and 2004’sFinding Neverland(starringJohnny DeppandKate Winslet).
“When I first read Fredrik Backman’s novel, I fell in love with the notion that friendship has the power to shape a person’s life,” said Forster. “I can’t wait to create a film with so much humor and heart.” Forster will also be an executive producer for the film, along withRenee Wolf, through their production company 2DUX2.David Mageewill write the film. Magee previously worked with Forster onFinding Neverland. His other previous work includes 2018’sMary Poppins Returns(directed byRob Marshall), 2012’sLife of Pi(directed byAng Lee), and 2008’sMiss Pettigrew Lives for a Day(directed byBharat Nalluri). He also co-wrote the script for Disney’s upcominglive action remake ofThe Little Mermaid(also directed by Marshall).
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SF Studios’Fredrik Wikstrom Nicastrowill be a producer for the film. He was also a producer on the 2015 Swedish film version. “[Forster’s] unique ability to tell human stories that strongly connect with audiences makes him the perfect filmmaker to helm this beloved story.” said Nicastro.Rita Wilsonwill also be a producer. “The humanity of the story has resonated with people all over the world, including myself,” said Wilson. “I have always looked for films that bring people joy and, hopefully, create a common experience of recognizing ourselves in others.” The 2015 Swedish film version was directed byHannes Holm. It starredRolf Lassgard,Bahar Pars,Filip Berg, andIda Engvoll. It became the highest grossing foreign language film in the U.S. in 2016. The film later went on to be nominated for two Academy Awards.
No official release date has been announced forA Man Called Ove. Production is set to begin this year.
