Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks has been cast to play former US president Abraham Lincoln in the upcoming film adaptation of “Lincoln in the Bardo”, a unique historical reflection from contemporary literature. Directed by Duke Johnson, the project combines live-action filming with stop-motion animation and is currently in production in London. Hanks will portray the 16th president in live action, with the film being produced by Starburns Industries, recognized for its innovative animation projects.
Based on the Booker Prize-winning novel by author George Saunders, the story delves into Lincoln’s sorrow following the loss of his 11-year-old son during the American Civil War. It is set in a supernatural realm inspired by Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, exploring themes of grief, memory, and political obligations through a group of unsettled spirits witnessing the president’s personal struggles.
Johnson, known for his work on the Oscar-nominated animated film “Anomalisa”, is spearheading this new project with a mix of live-action and animation, reflecting a daring artistic vision. The production team includes Hanks and Gary Goetzman from Playtone, along with Johnson, Paul Young, and Devon Young Rabinowitz.
Saunders’ novel, a recipient of the Booker Prize in 2017, was commended for its innovative narrative style and dark humor in reimagining historical events. Adapting this distinctive voice for the screen poses a unique challenge due to the book’s intricate storytelling and diverse cast of ghostly characters.
Tom Hanks, a prominent figure in Hollywood, has a wide-ranging filmography, from indie films to blockbuster franchises. He is also slated to return as Woody in “Toy Story 5” and star in the upcoming World War II drama “Greyhound 2”, produced by Pixar and The Walt Disney Company. His portrayal of Lincoln comes at a time when the former president’s legacy is being revisited across various entertainment mediums.
While Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal in Spielberg’s “Lincoln” is well-known, Hanks’ interpretation in “Lincoln in the Bardo” is anticipated to offer a more introspective and philosophical view of the historical figure. The film’s release coincides with a growing interest in literary adaptations that push creative boundaries in historical storytelling, potentially opening up new avenues for on-screen narratives.
