Bradley Cooper's Fall From Heaven in Upcoming Film 'Paradise Lost'
Legendary Pictures can’t get enough of “The Hangover” star, Bradley Cooper.
Talks are underway right now to secure him for a role in the upcoming adaptation of John Milton’s 17th century epic poem Paradise Lost, according to Variety.
Though an offer has yet to be made, Cooper is reported to be eager to take part and negotiations are expected to begin shortly.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
So what part will the actor portray in what Legendary Pictures hopes to be another successful film? None other than Lucifer himself.
The film version of Paradise Lost is described to be a highly stylized action/epic or drama/fantasy that centers on Lucifer’s failed rebellion in heaven and subsequent role in Adam and Eve’s fall from grace.
Chronicling the battle between the fallen archangel and Michael, rumor has it that an aerial warfare will be included, shot possibly in 3D.
The original 10-book series by Milton in his own spin, tells the story of the fall of Satan and the temptation of Adam and Eve. He draws most from the book of Genesis, with other references to the Old and New Testament as well.
Milton’s purpose for writing the work was to “justify the ways of God to men,” as stated in the first book, and expound on the concept of free will versus God’s omniscience, among other major themes.
But scholars alike continue to argue whether the English poet’s intentions were religious or political, some even believing that his writings were criticizing the tyranny of the monarchy.
As expected, however, the focus of the film is speculated not to be on theology or politics, which may presumably be for the better, but the impassioned struggle between good and evil, in all its action-packed, CGI glory. Think of the words Hollywood and blockbuster hit.
Regardless of the Christian or non-Christian elements, Milton’s work is coined to be one of the greatest works in the English language.
With Alex Proyas – in place of Scott Derrickson of “The Day the Earth Stood Still” – set to direct the larger-than-life movie, many are unsure what to expect from the “I, Robot, Dark City and The Crow” director and uncertain whether or not he has the ability to carry out such an ambitious tale.
A long list of screenwriters have already ventured into the project, the primary draft of the screenplay originally written by Byron Willinger and Philip de Blasi, developed by Stuart Hazeldine, as stated in Variety.
Lawrence Kasdan of “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and Ryan Condal have also delivered the most recent draft.
Thomas Tull and Jon Jashni will be joining Vincent Newman in producing, with Newman having developed under his own company for years.
Warner Brothers will reportedly distribute the film worldwide, co-financing and co-producing with Legendary.
“Paradise Lost” is in the late stages of development currently, scripting, budgeting, and casting. There is no word yet on who will play the other archangel Michael or Adam and Eve.
If all goes well, the big-budget feature is looking to film in Australia, Proyas told IF recently. The filmmaker is looking for supplementary and state government support to help finance the film.
“Paradise Lost” is set to make its way into theaters sometime in 2012.
