Tom Hanks to Embark on Presidential Role in Unique ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ Adaptation
Tom Hanks, 69, is set to portray Abraham Lincoln in the upcoming film “Lincoln in the Bardo,” a project that blends live-action with stop-motion animation. This marks the first time Hanks will take on the role of a U.S. President on screen.
Film Based on Award-Winning Novel
The film is based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name by George Saunders, 67. Saunders’ book won the prestigious Booker Prize in 2017 and became a bestseller.
The story centers on a deeply personal period in Lincoln’s life: his grief over the death of his eleven-year-traditional son, Willie. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, combining historical figures with fictional characters to create a complex portrayal of loss and transformation.
A Blend of Live-Action and Animation
What sets this adaptation apart is its unique visual approach. “Lincoln in the Bardo” will combine live-action scenes featuring Hanks as Lincoln with animated sequences.
The film will be directed by Duke Johnson, 46, known for his work on the Oscar-nominated animated feature “Anomalisa.”
Hanks’ First Presidential Portrayal
Hanks has a celebrated history of portraying real-life figures, but this is his first time embodying a U.S. President. His previous roles include Richard Phillips and Fred Rogers.
Other recent cinematic and television portrayals of Lincoln include Daniel Day-Lewis in Steven Spielberg’s 2012 biopic “Lincoln” and Hamish Linklater in the 2014 Apple TV series “Manhunt.”
Hanks Also Involved as Producer
Tom Hanks will also serve as a producer on “Lincoln in the Bardo” through his production company, Playtone, alongside director Duke Johnson and Gary Goetzman.
The film is being produced by Starburns Industries, with filming scheduled to take place in London. A specific start date for production has not yet been announced.
The Rise of Hybrid Animation and Historical Dramas
The choice to blend live-action with stop-motion animation in “Lincoln in the Bardo” reflects a growing trend in filmmaking. Hybrid animation techniques allow filmmakers to explore complex narratives and emotional landscapes in visually innovative ways. This approach can offer a unique aesthetic that distinguishes a project from traditional live-action or fully animated films.
The Appeal of Historical Dramas
Historical dramas continue to resonate with audiences, offering insights into pivotal moments and figures from the past. The enduring fascination with Abraham Lincoln, as evidenced by previous successful portrayals, suggests a strong audience appetite for stories that explore his life and legacy. The combination of a compelling historical figure with a unique artistic approach could position “Lincoln in the Bardo” for significant success.
Future Trends: Immersive Storytelling and Personalized History
The production of “Lincoln in the Bardo” hints at broader trends in entertainment. We can expect to see more projects that prioritize immersive storytelling, utilizing innovative technologies to draw audiences deeper into the narrative. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences could further enhance historical dramas, allowing viewers to “step into” the past.
Personalized Historical Narratives
Another emerging trend is the personalization of historical narratives. As data analytics and AI become more sophisticated, filmmakers may be able to tailor stories to individual viewers’ interests and preferences. This could involve offering different perspectives on historical events or allowing viewers to interact with the narrative in meaningful ways.
FAQ
Will this be a traditional biopic? No, “Lincoln in the Bardo” is a unique adaptation that blends live-action and stop-motion animation, focusing on a specific, intimate period in Lincoln’s life.
Who is directing the film? Duke Johnson, known for his work on “Anomalisa,” is directing the film.
Is the book the film is based on well-regarded? Yes, George Saunders’ “Lincoln in the Bardo” won the 2017 Booker Prize and was a bestseller.
Where will the film be shot? Filming is scheduled to take place in London.
Is Tom Hanks only acting in the film? No, Tom Hanks is also producing the film through his production company, Playtone.