The new adaptation of “The Great Gatsby” interestingly aims to be a major summer blockbuster.Among the many “big” summer movies being hyped for the 2013 season, one unusual contender has been standing out between the comic book and TV adaptations: director Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of the legendary F. Scott Fitzgerald novel “The Great Gatsby.” Luhrmann, whose filmography includes “Moulin Rouge” and “Romeo + Juliet” is known for being a hyperkinetic stylist with visual flair, and the decision to film his latest work in 3D is both consistent with his heightened sensibilities and a potential roadblock for purists. In either case, the movie is shaping up to be more ambitious in its own way than the sequels and reboots more commonly seen this time of year and looks to be something of a Hollywood wildcard when it hits movie screens in May.
The movie stars Toby Maguire and previous Luhrmann collaborator Leonardo DiCaprio and was filmed with cameras of the Red Epic brand. In spite of the seeming liberties he appears to be taking, such as using contemporary music on the soundtrack, the Australian director defended the grandness of his project while speaking in a pre-recorded presentation at CinemaCon this month.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, he likened his efforts to that of the author he adapted, noting that “F. Scott Fitzgerald was a great fan of new technology.”
Another potential item of controversy is Luhrmann’s addition of new scenes, including a prologue that sets up most of the story’s action as flashback, and more details drawing from related works by and featuring Fitzgerald.
Whenever a large-scale movie appears, regardless of the subject, the opportunity arises for it to become a major event, especially if it uses cutting-edge technology. Organizations looking to capitalize on big releases can make efforts to secure outdoor screens for such movies and make the most out of a summer release.