Tom Hanks Cast In Baz Luhrmann's Elvis Biopic

Baz Luhrmann is, in my opinion, one of the most exciting directors in the industry, and he has not released a feature film since 2013's The Great Gatsby (one of my favourite films, as seen in my 'All Time Favourites' list in the sidebar). This recently occurred to me and I have been eagerly awaiting for an announcement like this to be made. I have really admired Luhrmann's stylistic choices, to take classic stories or properties - which in their original form are incredibly timeless - and adapt them into a somewhat modern take, but still embodying the tone. It's a peculiar blend, but a distinctive one, establishing Baz Luhrmann as a true auteur filmmaker.

This is immediately one of my most anticipated films of the near future, and mostly because of this match. Because of Luhrmann's style, I doubt this upcoming Elvis biopic will fall into the same vein as Bohemian Rhapsody and most likely the upcoming Rocketman, with a seemingly conventional approach to the story. However, with Luhrmann at the helm, this could be something really special, and I hope that he finds that perfect balance of style and substance, an issue many had with Gatsby (something I strongly, strongly disagree with).

In addition, this is a wonderful job for Tom Hanks. I'm not sure how big of a role he will play in this film, but it's great that he is signed on to a project of this calibre in regards to the (likely) mass appeal. He is, of course, involved with Toy Story 4, but I can't say that Hanks has been in many well-received and commercially successful films since Saving Mr Banks in 2013, so this - as well as his upcoming A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood where he will be playing Fred Rodgers - is a good opportunity for him to get back into the public consciousness.

The big question here is... Who will star as the Golden Age Rock 'n' Roll icon?