“Follies” Broadway Musical is Coming to the Big Screen
Variety reports that the Stephen Sondheim musical “Follies” is being adapted into a movie.
Dominic Cooke, who directed the 2017 revival of the musical (which returned this year) at London’s National Theatre, is set to direct the film. The revival starring Peter Forbes as Buddy, Imelda Staunton as Sally, Janie Dee as Phyllis, and Philip Quast as Ben won the 2018 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.
Sondheim says, “Over the years, there have been many attempts to bring ‘Follies’ to the screen, but not until Dominic Cooke’s brilliant production at the National Theatre of Great Britain did it seem like it could be a real movie.”
Set in 1971, theatrical impresario Dimitri Weissmann hosts a reunion of ex-Follies performers in his crumbling theatre. Amid the reminiscing, two middle-aged couples confront some unpleasant truths about their past and present, coming face-to-face with the future.
“Follies”, written by Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Goldman (book), opened on Broadway in 1971. It was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and won 7, including Best Original Score for Sondheim. Popular songs from the show include “Broadway Baby”, “I’m Still Here”, and “Losing My Mind.” Heyday Films and BBC Films will be producing the film.
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