It might seem crazy what we’re about to say – 20th Century Fox is developing a musical movie based on Pharrell Williams’ childhood in Virginia Beach!
The upcoming film, titled “Atlantis”, is described as a “Romeo and Juliet-style love story with a musical element”. Broadway director Michael Mayer (of “Spring Awakening” and “American Idiot” fame) is attached to direct.
Born in Virginia Beach, Williams is a singer-songwriter and musical who has won 10 Grammy Awards. He produced soul, hip-hop, and R&B music with Chad Hugo under the name The Neptunes for many A-list artistes such as Britney Spears, Jay Z, Nelly, and Clipse. Moreover, the 42-year-old musician performed as the lead vocalist in the band N*E*R*D.
To date, he has released 2 solo albums: “In My Mind” (2006) and “Girl” (2014). He is also known for being a judge on NBC’s hit TV talent show, “The Voice”.
Aside from music, Williams also dabbled in making movies. The “Happy” singer was a producer on Fox’s critically acclaimed film, “Hidden Figures”, which was nominated for 3 Oscars including best picture. He also produced Michael Larnell’s “Roxanne Roxanne”, a Roxanne Shante-inspired hip hop biopic which premiered at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.
“Atlantis” will be penned by screenwriter Martin Hynes, who is currently writing “Toy Story 4”. It was also reported that Williams and Mimi Valdes will produce the musical via their I Am Other banner while Gil Netter (from “Life Of Pi”) produces for Netter Productions.
Sources: Variety, Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter.
