RON HOWARD will direct a new, as-yet-untitled biopic on world-renowned pianist Lang Lang based on the memoir “Journey of a Thousand Miles” by Lang and David Ritz. The biopic will trace Lang’s extraordinary life story, from his childhood in Shenyang in northeastern China to the peak of the global classic music industry. Along the way, Lang’s family sacrificed almost everything to help their talented son succeed. The biopic is set to shoot in China and the United States. It will be produced by Howard’s longtime partner Brian Grazer, as well as Imagine Entertainment’s president of features, Karen Lunder, and AGC Studios’ Stuart Ford. “Lang’s story is one of determination, passion, sacrifice, and finding the inner strength to beat the odds,” said Grazer and Howard in a joint statement. “This film is a bridge between two cultures that share universal truths about the gauntlets we face in the pursuit of greatness.” “Dream big, work hard and always believe in yourself. This movie, thanks to Ron Howard’s vision, will inspire young people around the world to follow their dreams and never forget they are one in a million,” said Lang in a statement. The screenplay is written by Michelle Mulroney and Kieran Mulroney, the team behind “Paper Man” and “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows.” Lang ranks as one of the greatest classical pianists, beloved for his dramatic playing style. After moving to America, Lang attended the Curtis Institute of Music where he was mentored by Gary Graffman, an influential instructor. That set Lang off on a professional odyssey that has included everything from appearances at the Grammys to the 2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony. Howard, who has explored the lives of musicians in his documentaries “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week” and “Pavarotti,” is expected to turn his attention to the Lang film after completing “Thirteen Lives,” a thriller about the Thai Cave Rescue for MGM. Howard’s credits include “Apollo 13” and “A Beautiful Mind,” as well as the upcoming “Hillbilly Elegy.” Lang and Jean-Jacques Cesbron along with Michele Anthony and David Blackman, will serve as executive producers.(SD-Agencies) |