It's been a while since we've heard anything about Ang Lee's planned film on the legendary "Thrilla In Manilla" boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. Originally set as his follow-up to Life of Pi, and shot in 3D just as that film was, the project never got going and the director moved on to direct Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk. But now Lee is coming back to the boxing film with a new studio on board and possibly two talented stars ready to hit the ring.
Now set up at Studio 8, Lee's film is eyeing David Oyelowo for the role of "Smokin' Joe" Frazier, who would go on to lose the historic matchup against Muhammad Ali. Ray Fisher, set to play Cyborg in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League, is the frontrunner for Ali. Peter Morgan wrote the most recent script which takes place in the 1970s when boxing was the king of all sports.
No word on when this could shoot but it looks as if Lee, who won Best Director for Life of Pi and is wrapping up on 'Halftime Walk' now, isn't wasting any time in lining up what's next. [Variety/TheWrap]
