Emile Hirsch is now in talks to play the legendary John Belushi in a biopic film. The film was planned years ago, and after being halted for various reasons, the project has now been given new life.
The film will be written and directed by Steve Conrad. He previously wrote the script for The Weather Man and the upcoming film starring Ben Stiller, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
The film has not been officially cast yet, but Emile Hirsch seems to be the most likely candidate at the moment, while the director has also met with and considered the role for Adam Devine and Joaquin Phoenix.
Joaquin Phoenix and Emile Hirsch are being eyed to play John Belushi in a biopic on the late comedian. #actors
— Golden Globe Awards (@goldenglobes) October 22, 2013
Nelson Franklin, who has been on both The Office and New Girl, is being considered for the role of Dan Ackroyd, his friend and co-star. Belushi and Ackroyd appeared on Saturday Night Live at the same time, and also appeared in several films together, including their big hit, The Blues Brothers.
Hirsch, who is of course most recognized for his role in the film Into The Wild, has appeared in several films in the past decade. At the age of 28, he has gained a great reputation as an actor, and this film could even elevate him to the next level. He is also set to appear in the upcoming film Prince Avalanche, alongside Paul Rudd.
John Belushi is one of those actors who were cherished during their time in Hollywood, but were taken from audiences far too early. He was also the star of Animal House, the popular college film. At the age of 33, he famously suffered an early death from a drug overdose.
Emile Hirsch as John Belushi? For some reason ..I can actually see that.
— Mark Cassidy (@RorMachine) October 22, 2013
The film hopes to convey the message that Belushi was a man that embodied both the glory and the tragedy of the American dream, focusing on Belushi at the height of his career. His widow, Judy Belushi Pesano, has also signed on as one of the producers, and Dan Ackroyd will executive produce.
With Emile Hirsch as the actor most likely to play the comedic icon, the filmmakers will look to start shooting the film in the spring of 2014, with New York selected as the location.