The Hollywood Reporter brings word that Warner Bros. has picked up the big screen rights to Jeffrey Spivak’s book, “Buzz: The Life and Art of Busby Berkely,” with plans for Ryan Gosling to produce and potentially both direct and star as well.
Published in 2010, Spivak’s biography is officially described as follows:
Characterized by grandiose song-and-dance numbers featuring ornate geometric patterns and mimicked in many modern films, Busby Berkeleys unique artistry is as recognizable and striking as ever. From his years on Broadway to the directors chair, Berkeley is notorious for his inventiveness and signature style. Through sensational films like “42nd Street” (1933), “Gold Diggers of 1933” (1933), “Footlight Parade” (1933), and “Dames” (1934), Berkeley sought to distract audiences from the troubles of the Great Depression. Although his bold technique is familiar to millions of moviegoers, Berkeleys life remains a mystery.
“Buzz” is a telling portrait of the filmmaker who revolutionized the musical and changed the world of choreography. Berkeley pioneered many conventions still in use today, including the famous parade of faces technique, which lends an identity to each anonymous performer in a close-up. Carefully arranging dancers in complex and beautiful formations, Berkeley captured perspectives never seen before.
Jeffrey Spivaks meticulous research magnifies the career and personal life of this beloved filmmaker. Employing personal letters, interviews, studio memoranda, and Berkeleys private memoirs, Spivak unveils the colorful life of one of cinemas greatest artists.
Gosling will be teaming with fellow producer Marc Platt, with whom he worked on Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive as well as his own directorial debut, the upcoming How to Catch a Monster.
(Photo Credit: WENN.com)
