NIL BY MOUTH is one of the greatest films ever made, so it seems a shame that acting legend Gary Oldman hasn’t directed since. But that looks set to change thanks to FLYING HORSE, a biopic focusing on the life of Eadweard Muybridge, a photographer known for his pioneering work in motion-picture projection. Obviously quite the inspiration for anyone in film, but I’d hazard a guess that Oldman will focus more on the darker side of his life, which included murder. Suspecting his son may have been fathered by his wife’s friend, he shot the man (Major Harry Larkyns) dead after saying “Good evening, Major, my name is Muybridge and here’s the answer to the letter you sent my wife.” Muybridge’s insanity plea may have been dismissed, but the jury saw fit to acquit him on the grounds of justifiable homicide. Good times.
Word on the street is that Oldman wants Ralph Fiennes to play Muybridge, and his TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY co-star Benedict Cumberbatch for Larkyns. Personally, I want to see Ray Winstone and Kathy Burke in all the roles, but that’s just the nostalgia talking. Oldman may also take on a role himself as the District Attorney out to prosecute Muybridge. Oldman has written the script and is looking to start production early next year. However, this may clash with Cumberbatch’s shooting schedule for Guillermo Del Toro’s CRIMSON PEAK.
Needless to say, this is a damn exciting project on all fronts. The subject matter is relevant to film and film lovers as well as containing a darker emotional hook. The dream cast would certainly be a joy to behold on screen, and will amazing t see what directorial techniques Oldman has picked up over the last 17 years from the talent he has worked with.
Source: The Wrap
