Martin Scorsese 'revisiting plans' for Frank Sinatra biopic with Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence

Film fans accuse the acclaimed director of having an ‘obsession’ with DiCaprio, having worked together six times before
Tina Campbell19 April 2024
The Weekender

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Martin Scorsese is looking to revive his previously stalled Frank Sinatra biopic with regular collaborator Leonardo DiCaprio as the lead role, according to reports.

The Oscar-winning director, 81, previously tried to get a film about the legendary crooner’s life off the ground in 2009, with backing from Hollywood studio Universal and DiCaprio once again in the frame.

The following year, he told Indian newspaper The Hindu that he planned to cast Al Pacino and Robert De Niro as Sinatra and his fellow Rat Packer Dean Martin.

He then painted an image of his vision to Shortlist.com, saying it would involve several actors playing the lead role.

“We can’t go through the greatest hits of Sinatra’s life. We tried this already. Just can’t do it. So the other way to go is to have three or four different Sinatras. Younger. Older. Middle-aged. Very old. You cut back and forth in time – and you do it through the music.”

Martin Scorsese previously tried to get a Frank Sinatra biopic off the ground in 2009 without success
PA Wire

Despite having a reputation for getting what he wants, Scorsese is said to have come up against opposition from Sinatra’s daughter Tina, who controls her father’s estate and image.

Ms Sinatra is not believed to have been agreeable to Scorsese’s plans for a “hard-hitting” tale that would include her late father’s connections with organised crime and favoured George Clooney in the lead.

Now, according to Variety, Scorsese is attempting to have another crack of the whip and while he still has yet to get Sinatra’s blessing, is already assembling an all-star cast.

In addition to DiCaprio, the cast would include Jennifer Lawrence as Ava Gardner, who was married to the singer between 1951 and 1957.

The move has not gone down well with film fans, who took to X, formerly Twitter, to share their thoughts.

“Oh god, please no. Leo’s a great actor but Frank Sinatra he ain’t,” wrote person.

“I’m sorry Marty but in no universe am I going to believe DiCaprio as FRANK SINATRA or J Law as Eva Gardener,” fumed another.

While a third accused Scorsese of being “obsessed” with DiCaprio, having worked together six times previously.

They urged him to “audition or consider other actors”.

Some even put forward their own suggestions for who could play Ol’ Blue Eyes on screen, including Family Guy star Seth McFarlane - who vocally is more than capable - actor Dane DeHaa, and Mad Men star Vincent Kartheiser.

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