In an intriguing revelation, legendary director Ridley Scott once contemplated bringing the classic board game Monopoly to life on the big screen. Known for adapting novels and crafting original billion-dollar franchises, Scott’s consideration of an existing IP marks a notable deviation from his typical approach. According to Seth Rogen, who shared this surprising tidbit in a Variety interview to promote “The Studio” on Apple TV+, Scott’s pitch was nothing short of visionary.
Rogen, the co-creator and star of the satirical show, disclosed that Scott was attached to direct a Monopoly film around 15 years ago. This concept served as an inspiration for one of the show’s humorous lines. The film was to feature a helicopter shot of Central Park, whose surrounding buildings portrayed a Monopoly board. Rogen’s recollection highlights the cinematic grandeur Scott envisioned for the project, which he described as “fancy” and uniquely conceptual.
While the notion of Ridley Scott directing a Monopoly movie might seem far-fetched, it underscores Hollywood’s persistent attraction to IP-based projects. As Rogen humorously recounts his reaction, “I was like, ‘F*ck, that’s good.’” Indeed, the idea reflects Scott’s flair for visual storytelling and ambitious filmmaking.
The Monopoly project’s stalled development doesn’t signal the end of such possibilities. Following the success of Greta Gerwig‘s Barbie film, the Monopoly movie is once again gaining traction. Recent developments suggest that John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, directors of “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” are now set to write the script, reviving hopes for this unique adaptation.
Within the context of Hollywood’s fixation on monetizing established properties, “The Studio” provides a satirical mirror. In the debut episode, Bryan Cranston‘s portrayal of a cynical studio owner captures the industry’s current ethos: “We don’t make films, we make movies.” This sharp critique sets a comedic tone with Matt Remick, a new studio executive played by Rogen, embarking on a quest to reconcile artistic values with corporate demands, while humorously referencing real-life Hollywood scenarios.
Embedded within the show’s narrative, Ridley Scott’s Monopoly pitch serves as a backdrop, enhancing the storyline’s authenticity and creativity. The inclusion of iconic director Martin Scorsese in a fictional role further amplifies the theme of artistic compromise, aligning with Scorsese’s real-world critique of “theme park” cinema versus traditional filmmaking merits.
Beyond the clever meta-commentary of “The Studio,” the series boasts an impressive roster. Alongside Seth Rogen, names like Ike Barinholtz, Chase Sui Wonders, Kathryn Hahn, and Catherine O’Hara strengthen the cast. Star-studded guest appearances, including Charlize Theron, Adam Scott, and an ensemble of celebrities, augment its allure, likening it to an Oscars after-party.
As The Studio premieres new episodes weekly on Apple TV+, it captures the dual realities of creativity and commercialism within Hollywood’s landscape. With Matt Remick’s endeavors at Continental Studios as its backdrop, the show promises an insightful exploration into the film industry, mirroring ongoing trends and ambitions.
In summary, Ridley Scott’s prospective Monopoly film embodies the dual forces shaping Hollywood’s future: a blend of daring innovation and the enduring appeal of beloved franchises. While the project remains an Unrealized dream, it echoes a broader industry narrative, suggesting an openness to reimagining cherished icons through cinema’s transformative lens. With the movie’s potential resurrection, audiences might yet experience Ridley Scott’s unique vision come to life.
