Andrew Garfield is set to star in the film adaptation of “Tick, Tick…Boom!,” which is the feature directorial debut of Lin-Manuel Miranda, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The movie is set up at Netflix and is based on the autobiographical, off-Broadway play by the writer of “Rent,” Jonathan Larson. Larson died tragically in 1996 the night before the musical “Rent” made its first preview performance and eventually became a worldwide sensation, winning Larson multiple posthumous Tony awards and the Pulitzer Prize.
Netflix acquired worldwide rights to the film back in June, and Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer, Ron Howard and Julie Oh are set as producers alongside Miranda.
“Tick, Tick… Boom!” is set in 1990 and tells the story of Jon, an aspiring theater composer who is waiting tables in New York City while writing “Superbia” — which he hopes will be the next great American musical and finally give him his big break. Jon is also feeling pressure from his girlfriend Susan, who is tired of continuing to put her life on hold for Jon’s career aspirations. Meanwhile, his best friend and roommate Michael, has given up on his creative aspirations for a high paying advertising job on Madison Avenue and is about to move out. As Jon approaches his 30th birthday, he is overcome with anxiety – wondering if his dream is worth the cost.
The story is based on Larson’s own life, and the “Hamilton” star Miranda also appeared in a production of “Tick, Tick…Boom!” from New York City Center’s Encores! Off-Center.
“Tick, Tick…Boom!” was originally performed as a solo production by Larson in 1990, but after his death, it was revamped as a musical by David Auburn and made its premiere in 2001.
Tony-winner Steven Levenson (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “Fosse/Verdon”) is adapting the screenplay based on Larson’s original stage show. Levenson will also executive produce along with Julie Larson.
Garfield just wrapped shooting “Mainstream” from director Gia Coppola, and he is currently filming alongside Jessica Chastain for the film “The Eyes of Tammy Faye.” He’s also set to play composer James Rhodes in the biopic “Instrumental” and was seen earlier this year in “Under the Silver Lake.” He’s represented by CAA and Kate Bryden at Gordon and French in London.
Deadline first reported the news of Garfield’s casting.