Legendary former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson has been cast in the upcoming drama-thriller Black Flies. Tyson is joining an impressive cast that already includes two-time Academy Award winner Sean Penn, Ready Player One's Tye Sheridan and Fantastic Beasts' Katherine Waterston. The Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire-directed film is based on a best-selling Shannon Burke novel of the same name and is inspired by the author's experiences as a paramedic in the high-wire world of New York City in the 1990s. Black Flies is being adapted for the screen by rising scriptwriter Ryan King, who's recent films include The Tutor with Garrett Hedlund.
Per THR, Tyson’s role in Black Flies is being described as a lead in the film. He is reportedly playing the superior officer among the male paramedics, played by Sheridan and Penn. The choices that they make take them in opposite directions, as the rookie finds his desire to help people challenged to the breaking point.
Tyson is widely regarded around the world as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in history, but has also established his presence outside of the ring. Beginning with a notable string of appearances as himself in various films like Rocky Balboa and the hit comedy The Hangover, the former boxer built a notable film resume in recent years. The most significant entry is perhaps an installment in the international hit martial arts franchise Ip Man 3 as the antagonist alongside martial arts icon Donnie Yen. Since then, Tyson has also appeared in several other action films. Starring in a high-profile movie such as Black Flies is sure to bolster Tyson's entertainment career even further.
Source: THR