Shirley MacLaine to Star in ‘Margret and Stevie’: A Seem at Biopics and the Enduring Appeal of Literary Figures
Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine is set to portray Margret Rey, the co-creator of the beloved Curious George, in the upcoming film Margret and Stevie, directed by Matthew Weiner. This project highlights a growing trend in Hollywood: bringing the stories of impactful, yet often unsung, literary figures to the large screen.
The Rise of Literary Biopics
While historical dramas have always held audience appeal, biopics focusing on authors and their creative processes are gaining momentum. This isn’t simply about celebrating literary achievement. it’s about exploring the human stories behind iconic works. The film centers on Rey later in life, facing challenges to her legacy and confronting her past, offering a compelling narrative beyond the familiar children’s book character.
The success of films like Finding Forrester (2000), which explored the relationship between a young writer and a reclusive author, demonstrates the audience interest in these narratives. More recently, projects focusing on authors are in development, suggesting a sustained interest in these stories.
Matthew Weiner’s Return to Directing
Margret and Stevie marks Matthew Weiner’s second directorial effort, following the 2013 comedy Are You Here. Known for his critically acclaimed function on Mad Men and The Sopranos, Weiner brings a nuanced storytelling approach to the project. His ability to delve into complex characters and explore themes of identity and legacy makes him a fitting director for a biopic centered on Margret Rey.
Shirley MacLaine: A Legacy Continues
With a career spanning over 70 years, Shirley MacLaine is a celebrated figure in Hollywood. Her accolades include an Academy Award for Terms of Endearment (1983), six Oscar nominations, six Golden Globe Awards, and a Cecil B. DeMille Award. Currently filming Lucy Boomer with Ansel Elgort, MacLaine continues to demonstrate her versatility and enduring appeal. Her involvement lends significant weight and prestige to Margret and Stevie.
The Production Powerhouse Behind the Film
Rohm Feifer Entertainment and Latigo Films are financing and producing Margret and Stevie. Rohm Feifer Entertainment, founded in 2023, focuses on female-forward and inspirational storytelling. Latigo Films, established in 2021, has quickly built a slate of diverse projects. This collaboration suggests a commitment to bringing compelling, character-driven narratives to audiences.
The Enduring Appeal of ‘Curious George’ and its Creator
Curious George remains a cultural touchstone, captivating generations of children. The story of Margret Rey, a Jewish refugee who fled Nazi-occupied France with her husband, H.A. Rey, and the subsequent creation of the iconic monkey, adds a layer of depth and resilience to the beloved character. The film promises to explore this challenging period in Rey’s life, offering a more complete picture of the woman behind the books.
Stephanie Gillis’ Personal Connection
The script, penned by Stephanie Gillis, is based on her own friendship with Margret Rey. This personal connection likely infuses the story with authenticity and emotional resonance. Gillis, a Writer’s Guild and Peabody Award-winning writer, brings a strong writing pedigree to the project.
FAQ
Q: What is Margret and Stevie about?
A: The film centers on Margret Rey, co-creator of Curious George, later in life as she navigates challenges to her legacy and confronts memories of her past.
Q: Who is directing Margret and Stevie?
A: Matthew Weiner, known for his work on Mad Men and The Sopranos, is directing the film.
Q: Has Shirley MacLaine won an Oscar?
A: Yes, Shirley MacLaine won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Terms of Endearment (1983).
Q: What is Rohm Feifer Entertainment?
A: Rohm Feifer Entertainment is a production company dedicated to female-forward, inspirational storytelling.
Q: What other projects is Latigo Films working on?
A: Latigo Films has 12 films currently in production or post-production, including Hotel Tehran and Cliffhanger.
Did you know? Margret Rey and her husband escaped France on bicycles just ahead of the Nazi invasion in 1940, carrying the manuscript for Curious George with them.
Pro Tip: Preserve an eye out for casting announcements as additional actors join the Margret and Stevie project.
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