(Image source: Warner Bros. Pictures)
Entertainment critic and journalist Jeff Sneider recently reported on his paid blog, The Insneider, that Christian Bale is confirmed to star in "Madden," a biopic directed by David O. Russell, known for "Joy."
"Madden" chronicles the life of legendary American football coach John Madden, focusing on his long-standing friendship with fellow renowned coach Al Davis, and his illustrious career trajectory from player to coach and eventually a sports commentator. Davis, who owned the Oakland Raiders for 39 years, initially hired Madden as the team's linebackers coach in 1967 before promoting him to head coach in 1969.
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Sneider revealed that Bale is set to portray Davis, while Nicolas Cage was confirmed to play Madden back in August. The casting notably brings together two actors who have played iconic DC heroes, with Bale as Batman and Cage as Superman (referring to his past casting as Superman in an unproduced film). Before Bale and Cage joined, Russell had reportedly approached Will Ferrell and Hugh Jackman for the role of Madden, and was in talks with Tom Hanks to play Davis, but all ultimately passed on the project.
(Image source: IMDb)
"Madden" marks the fourth collaboration between Bale and Russell, following their previous films "The Fighter," "American Hustle," and "Amsterdam" two years ago. Additionally, Bale and Cage previously co-starred in "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" 23 years ago.
Produced by MGM/Amazon Studios, "Madden" originated from a Black List script penned by Cambron Clark. Russell himself undertook rewrites during the most recent WGA strike.
via： The InSneider