What is Richard Linklater's new film project?

Richard Linklater is filming an adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's musical, Merrily We Roll Along, over a planned 20-year period.

What challenges has the Merrily We Roll Along production faced?

The production faced an early challenge when the lead actor was replaced in 2021, requiring reshoots, due to circumstances beyond the director's control.

Why is the filming of Merrily We Roll Along unique?

The film is being shot in 'real time' over two decades to match the musical's 20-year narrative, avoiding de-aging effects and potentially clarifying its reverse chronological structure.

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Linklater's 20-Year Film: A Risky Cinematic Gamble

12 Apr

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Summary

Filming for Merrily We Roll Along is planned to span 20 years.
The project experienced early reshoots due to cast changes in 2021.
The musical's reverse chronological structure suits the ambitious filming.

Linklater's 20-Year Film: A Risky Cinematic Gamble

Filming for Richard Linklater's adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along commenced in 2019 and is slated to continue for two decades. This ambitious endeavor echoes Linklater's previous 12-year project, Boyhood, but with an extended timeline.

The production encountered an unexpected challenge early on. Initially, Blake Jenner was cast as the lead, Franklin Shepard. However, following allegations against Jenner, Paul Mescal took over the role, leading to reshoots in 2021. This incident highlights the inherent risks of such a prolonged production schedule.