Aaron Sorkin's The Trial of the Chicago 7 will be distributed domestically by Paramount Pictures and adds a couple more names to its star-studded cast. Best known for his screenwriting prowess, Sorkin made the jump to directing with 2017's Molly's Game. Bolstered by a standout performance from Jessica Chastain and Sorkin's characteristically strong script, the film earned several positive reviews and an Oscar nomination. Molly's Game demonstrated Sorkin had a future as a helmsman and he's lined up his next directorial effort.
The Trial of the Chicago 7 is based on the true story of the 1969 trial involving a group of anti-Vietnam protestors, who were arrested during the 1968 Democratic Convention. Sorkin became attached as director last fall, and quickly assembled an all-star ensemble that included Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Seth Rogen. Now, with the movie gearing up to start production, it's cast a couple more roles and found a home at a major studio.
According to The Wrap, Paramount acquired the U.S. distribution rights to The Trial of the Chicago 7. Additionally, Frank Langella has signed on to play U.S. District Court Judge Julius Hoffman. Oscar-winner Mark Rylance is going to portray lawyer William Kunstler, who defended the titular Chicago 7 during the trial. Principal photography commences in the fall.
Given the production schedule, The Trial of the Chicago 7 should be ready for a 2020 release. Paramount probably has its sights on giving the film an awards run next year. Sorkin's pedigree speaks for itself (he's won one Oscar and been nominated for two others), and the Academy always loves a well-crafted historical drama. There's also the potential for The Trial of the Chicago 7 to be relevant social commentary, as its story and core issues relate to the troubling political landscape of today (even though the incident took place 50 years ago). A politically-charged work from Sorkin arriving just in time for the next U.S. Presidential election is a tantalizing prospect, and hopefully the film delivers on its potential. Paramount would certainly love for this to be a hit; they haven't had a major Oscar contender since 2016 when they released films like Fences and Arrival.
Circling back to the cast additions, Rylance is taking the role Michael Keaton was eyed for months ago. While any film would benefit from the inclusion of Keaton, Rylance is a fine "consolation prize." Most famous for his award-winning turn in Steven Spielberg's Bridge of Spies, Rylance is capable of bringing poignant humanity and sharp wit to his roles, so the actor should prove to be a terrific match with Sorkin. As a matter of fact, everyone in the Trial of the Chicago 7 cast could possibly be doing some of the best work of their careers. Sorkin's fast-paced, intelligent scripts are a dream for actors to sink their teeth into, and it'll be fun to see what he cooked up for this one.
Source: The Wrap