It’s often been noted that in Milton’s Paradise Lost, it’s Lucifer (aka Satan) who has the most interesting role, and so it’s perhaps not surprising that if Hollywood is thinking about turning the classic tome into a movie, it’s that role that people are interested in. Indeed, Bradley Cooper’s apparently so keen, that even though he hasn’t officially been offered the role, Variety says he’s in early talks to try and ensure he nabs the part.
As we reported a few months ago, Alex Proyas (I Robot, Dark City) is directing the Paradise Lost movie, which Legendary Pictures has been developing through its financing deal with Warner Bros. While Paradise Lost tells several stories about the relationship between God and men, the 3D live action film will concentrate on the story of the epic war in heaven between archangels Michael and Lucifer, and will be crafted as an action vehicle that will include aerial warfare. While there’s a lot of scope for a good movie, the religious elements and dealing with Milton’s dense philosophy are what have scared off studios in the past, particularly the fact Milton presents Lucifer/Satan as a somewhat tragic figure.
However it could probably work as an action movie, even if purists will loath it!