It’s John C. Reilly vs. Steve Coogan in Shakespeare Comedy Movie The Players

As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for cinematic adaptations, I find myself eagerly awaiting the release of “The Players.” The collaboration between John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan, two comedic powerhouses who have proven their mettle in the world of entertainment, is bound to create a delightful spectacle. Their previous joint effort, Stan & Ollie, was a testament to their exceptional on-screen chemistry.


In their latest endeavor, John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan have secured roles for an upcoming film titled “The Players“. This new project is a comedic take on the Shakespearean world, drawing inspiration from the competitive relationship between Edwin Forrest and William MacCready.

Previously, Reilly and Coogan joined forces in the 2018 film Stan & Ollie, a humorous biography that delved into the comedy routines of Stanley “Stan” Laurel (portrayed by Coogan) and Oliver “Ollie” Hardy (played by Reilly) during the 1950s. Notably, Coogan earned a BAFTA nomination, and Reilly received recognition with a Golden Globe nod.

Reilly is particularly recognized for his humorous performances in Step Brothers and Talladega Nights: The Ricky Bobby Story. However, he was nominated for an Oscar for his supporting role in Chicago. Among his recent notable works is portraying Jerry Buss in the TV series Winning Time: The Ascent of the Lakers Empire.

Steve Coogan is primarily recognized as an English comedian, famously crafting the satirical character Alan Partridge. He has garnered Oscar nominations in both Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay categories for the film Philomena. More recently, Coogan took on the role of TV personality Paddy Meyers in Joker: Folie à Deux.

Who is involved in The Players?

In simple terms, the director Peter Cattaneo, famously known for “The Full Monty,” will helm the upcoming project “The Players.” The screenplay for this production has been penned by Jeff Pope, who recently worked on “Stan & Ollie.” Filming is scheduled to start in early 2025 across various European locations.

1847 in New York City, Edwin Forrest (Reilly) is uncontested as America’s leading Shakespearean actor, captivating audiences night after night with his stellar performances to a packed, boisterous crowd. He is the undisputed star. However, when the critically acclaimed English actor William MacCready (Coogan) from London arrives to perform an advanced rendition of Hamlet, Forrest’s title as the best is called into question. Both actors covet each other’s success, and the ensuing rivalry between them sparks a sidesplitting and unforgettable clash of egos. (Deadline’s synopsis rephrased)

The team comprising of Ben Pugh, Ben Cavey, Tim Cole, and Josh Horsfield are set to be the creators. The executive producers on this project are Coogan, Pope, Dave Bishop, George Hamilton, James Pugh, and Josh Varney.

Read More

2024-10-31 16:40