Oscar-winning director Martin Scorsese has delayed the production of two highly anticipated films he planned to shoot back-to-back this year. The projects include a biblical epic titled “The Life of Jesus,” based on Shūsaku Endō’s 1973 novel, and a biopic about legendary singer Frank Sinatra. Sources have confirmed that neither film will proceed this year.
“The Life of Jesus” was initially set to enter production first. Although no official cast has been announced, insiders indicate that the film remains in development. Scorsese is reportedly financing the project independently, following a similar path he took with his 2016 drama “Silence,” which also adapted an Endō novel. The filmmaker aims to shoot in Israel, Italy, and Egypt, but these locations are yet to be finalized. This film promises to explore the duality of Christ’s human and divine nature, echoing themes from Scorsese’s earlier work, “The Last Temptation of Christ.” There are unconfirmed rumors suggesting that Oscar nominee Andrew Garfield may be involved.
The Sinatra biopic, which had generated significant buzz in the industry, was previously slated to begin filming in November. However, key stakeholders were informed in mid-August that the start date had been canceled, with no new timeline provided. Scorsese has been attached to this project since it was first announced in 2009, originally set to be produced by Universal Pictures and Mandalay Pictures. While no studio is currently attached, both Apple and Sony have shown interest.
A pivotal concern regarding the Sinatra film is securing approval from the Sinatra estate, managed by his daughter Tina Sinatra. The estate’s blessing is essential, particularly since the film will explore Sinatra’s tumultuous marriage to actress Ava Gardner, a relationship that significantly impacted his life and career. It suggested that actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence have been in discussions for lead roles.
Despite these setbacks, the 81-year-old director remains active in the industry. He continues to serve as an executive producer on various projects, including Celina Murga’s drama “The Freshly Cut Grass,” which premiered at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival. Scorsese is also set to collaborate with Steven Spielberg on a TV series adaptation of “Cape Fear” for Apple TV+, serving as executive producers for the project, which is inspired by the 1991 and 1962 films.
With a prolific career spanning six decades, Scorsese holds the record as the most-nominated living director at the Academy Awards, boasting ten nominations for best director. He received his first Oscar for the best picture-winning film “The Departed” in 2006.
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