Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio are set to produce a new film from the minds of Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt. Furthermore, the project is currently being shipped to various studios and streamers. So why is this Hawaii-set crime caper generating interest within the industry? Notably, the film has drawn comparisons to iconic crime dramas such as The Departed and Goodfellas, which may be the reason behind its buzz.
Martin Scorsese’s Assembled Crew
With no deal in place, the project’s viability hinges on securing a distributor. Nick Bilton’s involvement in the film makes it more intriguing as he’ll pen the screenplay. As an accomplished author and journalist, Bilton was praised for directing the 2021 HBO documentary, Fake Famous. Reportedly, Martin Scorsese is gearing up for another dramatic collaboration with the renowned Leonardo DiCaprio.
So far, Blunt and Johnson have not yet shared any cast details. Described as a crime drama sharing similarities to Goodfellas, the untitled film will have a ruthless Hawaiian crime boss as its central character. At the same time, Bilton will write the screenplay with Scorsese, Johnson, DiCaprio, and Blunt. Danny Garcia, Lisa Frechette, and Rick Yorn will cooperate as producers.
About Emily Blunt and Dwayne Johnson’s Film
Deadline has received the latest update on the film’s concept. The story follows a Hawaiian crime boss inspired by a real-life person whose identity remains undisclosed. Likely set in the 1960s and 1970s, the film will take place during a tumultuous period in Hawaii’s history.
That said, the crime boss must navigate a complex web of conflicts while building a vast criminal empire. He wages war against mainland corporations and rival syndicates to preserve the ancestral land. Given the film’s cultural context, Johnson is likely to play the lead role as his partial Pacific Islander heritage can bring authenticity to the character.
Career Milestones for High-Profile Stars
Several individuals may reach a significant milestone if this film comes to fruition. With Scorsese and DiCaprio working together, the project builds on their existing partnership that has yielded numerous films, including the upcoming Devil in the White City. Additionally, Johnson would also have a substantial boost to his dramatic acting credentials.
Given his numerous action and comedy roles, Johnson seeks to expand his range with his involvement in the drama, The Smashing Machine, serving as a testament to this effort. If the Scorsese project happens, his status as a versatile actor capable of tackling complex dramatic roles is further cemented. Together with Scorses, they will receive benefits from this untitled project.
In recent years, Martin Scorsese emphasized shedding light on underrepresented stories. Notably, his work on Killers of the Flower Moon is a notable example of this trend, as it brought attention to the lesser-known chapter of indigenous American history. Scorsese’s latest project would explore similar themes as its main character fights for his ancestor’s home through adversity.
With this thematic overlap, he makes a deliberate effort to amplify marginalized voices. Furthermore, his influence as a renowned filmmaker enables him to bring these stories to the forefront. As a result, Hollywood is prompted to take notice of narratives that might have otherwise gone untold.
