A couple of weeks ago, we reported on possible projects for director Paul Greengrass. One of those was the movie Rush, about the rivalry between Niki Lauda and James Hunt in 1970s Formula 1 racing. However shortly afterwards it seemed he’d plumped for Maersk Alabama instead, which concerns a boat hijacked by Somali Pirates in 2009.
Now it appears we can cross Rush off Greengrass’ list completely, as the LA Times reports that the movie in now looking for financing, with Ron Howard’s name attached to the director’s chair. Of course, Howard is also working on The Dark Tower, which involves a grandiose plan for films and a bridging TV series. However that’s currently being reshaped due to budget concerns and isn’t likely to start shooting until next year. As a result, Howard hopes he can get Rush off the ground quickly, film it sometimes this year and have it in the can by the time he need to get behind the camera for Dark Tower.
The script comes from Peter Morgan, who Howard worked with on Frost/Nixon. The film is largely based on the true story of Formula One race car driver Niki Lauda, who nearly died during the 1976 season. Lauda’s car caught on fire during an August 1, 1976 race, which caused the driver to lose his right ear and lapse into a coma. The story will also follow the heated rivalry between Niki Lauda and James Hunt.
Although F1 isn’t that huge in the US, motor racing is, and with the documentary Senna currently making waves on its UK release, it may bea good time to try and convince Hollywood it’s worth spending the $50 million this is likely to cost to make.