It has been two years since the last time Ang Lee talked about his interest of making a boxing match real life story movie which they call "Thrilla in Manila". Following his successful Life of Pi movie, the Taiwanese-American filmmaker has finally revealed the continuation of movie's further developments.
The Hollywood Reporter recently confirmed that Ang Lee's "Thrilla in Manila" will be working wih Jeff Robinov's studio 8 together with the Universal Pictures. Originally, the development was under Universal as a follow-up to his successful Life of Pi movie under the same studio. But it was then delayed after he took the Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk project and it will be under Sony Pictures instead.
According to Deadline, the studio is already on the process of searching good possible location for the filming. Back in 2013, Lee confessed his interest of making the film which focuses on the boxing world when the world has reunited over Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier stepped on the rings in Manila. Peter Morgan was assigned to write the script and Lee will be producing alongside James Schamus.
Although there are no casting reports so far, speculations on who will portray the two main characters are being speculated. According to The Wrap, the names of David Oyelowo and Ray Fisher (Cyborg) are the top picks. Reportedly, Lee has chosen them for the role before the franchise was moved to Sony.
However, Fisher's participation might unlikely happen as he is doing another project. A conflict on his time and schedule will be the main issue if ever. Oyelowo (Interstellar) on the other hand has not yet commented about the rumor.
Meanwhile, "Thrilla in Manila" will be about the iconic Manila fight which happened in 1975. It was the third and final matchup between Ali and Frazier for the world's Heavyweight Championship award. The legendary fight took place in Manila, Philippines.
Fans are anticipating that the 3D boxing drama will be a box office hit just like Ang Lee's Oscar winning Life of Pi. The movie may not only be for the boxing enthusiasts. Are you going to see "Thrilla in Manila"?
Join the Conversation