Miramax are said to be in negotiations to make a big-screen adaptation of
Guys and Dolls, after the success of
Chicago.
According to Reuters, Craig Zadan, 'Chicago' executive producer, and Miramax have confirmed that they were hoping to strike a deal that would turn 'Guys and Dolls' into their next musical collaboration, even as they look at other projects.
Zadan said they aim to keep intact much of the rather large support team that made 'Chicago'. "The great thing about a musical like 'Chicago' is the amount of people you get to work on it, it's like three movies rolled into one. You're hiring a dance troupe, choreographer, a music department, and the elements to make a dramatic film as well."
"A lot of actors are coming forward who we never knew were capable of singing and dancing," Zadan said. "After 'Chicago' and 'Moulin Rouge,' they're going to their agents, saying, 'Hey, put me in a musical.' ... The musical is no longer defined as a niche area."
Miramax and the producers feel that "Guys and Dolls" has similar potential, even though it's a comedy. It shares a gritty period setting, colorful characters and the benefit of some popular stage tunes.
"Guys and Dolls" centers around Nathan Detroit, the organizer of the oldest established floating crap game in New York. He challenges fellow gambler Sky Masterson to a bet that he can't make the next girl he sees fall in love with him.