Danny Boyle to Direct Biopic on Rupert Murdoch‘s media Empire
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London - Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle is poised to helm “Ink,” a new film detailing the ascent of media mogul Rupert Murdoch and the conversion of British journalism. The project, backed by studiocanal, Media Res, and House Productions, promises an explosive look at the forces that shaped modern news.
Casting and Creative Team
Negotiations are underway with Guy Pearce to portray Rupert Murdoch, the Australian-born founder of News Corp. Jack O’Connell is in discussions to play Larry Lamb, a pivotal figure Murdoch recruited to lead The Sun newspaper after its 1969 acquisition.
James Graham,the playwright behind the original stage production,has adapted the screenplay. Boyle will produce alongside Tessa ross and Michael Ellenberg, marking a reunion with Ross following thier acclaimed collaboration on Slumdog Millionaire. Tracey Seaward and Tonia Davis also join as producers.
The Story of The Sun and a Tabloid Revolution
“Ink” will center on Murdoch’s aspiring efforts to revitalize The Sun, transforming it into a must-read publication. This acquisition ignited a fierce rivalry with The Mirror, ultimately fueling the rise of the British tabloid press as it is known today.
Pro Tip: Understanding the past context of British tabloids is key to appreciating the impact of Murdoch’s strategies.
The film aims to capture the energy of a group of innovators who dared to redefine news delivery, prioritizing public demand and fundamentally altering the media landscape.As noted by interaction scholar Marshall McLuhan, “The medium is the message,”[[1]] highlighting how the method of communication itself shapes society’s perception.
Boyle’s track Record and murdoch on Screen
Boyle’s previous work, including the unconventional biopic Steve Jobs, demonstrates his aptitude for portraying complex and influential figures. This project represents a meaningful departure from previous hollywood depictions of Murdoch, which have largely confined him to cameo appearances, such as Malcolm McDowell’s portrayal in the 2019 film bombshell.
The director reportedly prioritized Pearce and O’Connell for the lead roles from the outset. Pearce, fresh off an Oscar nomination for his performance in The Brutalist, was drawn to the possibility to embody a defining figure in Australian history.O’Connell’s recent roles in Sinners and 28 Years Later, the latter of which Boyle directed, solidified his position as a compelling choice to challenge Pearce on screen.
Did you know that Boyle cast O’Connell in a larger role in the upcoming 28 Years Later: Bone Temple after being impressed by his performance in 28 Years Later?
Production Details and Release Plans
Principal photography is scheduled to begin this October. Studiocanal is fully financing the film, with Ron Halpern and Joe Naftalin overseeing the project. The studio plans to release ”Ink” in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland, Benelux, Australia, and New Zealand, with worldwide sales handled by Studiocanal.
| Key Personnel | Role |
|---|---|
| Danny Boyle | Director, Producer |
| Guy Pearce | Rupert Murdoch (in negotiations) |
| Jack O’Connell | Larry Lamb (in negotiations) |
| James Graham | Screenwriter |
| Tessa Ross | Producer |
What impact do you think this film will have on public perception of Rupert Murdoch and the media landscape?
The Enduring Legacy of Rupert Murdoch
Rupert Murdoch’s influence on global media is undeniable. From his early acquisitions in Australia to building a vast empire encompassing newspapers, television networks, and film studios, Murdoch has consistently disrupted the industry. His strategies, often controversial, have reshaped news consumption and political discourse. The rise of 24-hour news cycles and the increasing polarization of media are often linked to his innovations. Understanding Murdoch’s career provides crucial insight into the evolution of modern journalism and its challenges.
Frequently asked Questions about “Ink”
- What is “Ink” about? “Ink” is a biographical drama focusing on Rupert Murdoch’s early career and the transformation of The Sun newspaper.
- Who is directing “Ink”? The film is being directed by Academy Award-winning director Danny Boyle.
- Who is cast in “Ink”? Guy Pearce and Jack O’Connell are currently in negotiations to star as Rupert Murdoch and Larry Lamb, respectively.
- when will “Ink” be released? Principal photography begins in october, with a release planned for 2025 in several territories.
- What is the source material for ”Ink”? The screenplay is adapted from the original play by James Graham.
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