Like many SNL alums, Kristen Wiig has decided its her time to try and make it big in Hollywood. She’s already had supporting roles in Adventureland, Extract, Whip It and Date Night and will be seen in the upcoming MacGruber, All Good Things and Paul. Now it seems she keen to start putting together movies herself to try and show off her talents. She’s already got a comedy she’s co-written in the works, about two women battling to plan their friend’s wedding party, and now she’s optioned the rights to Clown Girl.
Monica Drake’s dark comic novel follows a woman called Nita, who makes a living playing Sniffles the Clown at children’s birthday parties and events. However when she thinks she’s having a heart attack she accidentally meets a clown fetishist, and from their begins to reveals the strange side of Baloneytown, a place where clown prostitution, stoned dogs and fire juggling turned to arson is the norm. Nita struggles to make ends meet while also trying to sort out her man troubles.
While there’s not much info on the film version yet, Wiig has optioned the book, plans to write the screenplay and play the lead role.
I genuinely hope Wiig can make the transition from SNL to film, as while a lot of men have managed it – from Eddie Murphy to Will Ferrell – the women have struggled, with few going on to lasting screen success. However by taking control of her own film future, Kristen may be able make it work.