Award-winning actor Tom Hanks will be playing Mister Rogers in an upcoming movie. Sony Pictures even released a photo of Hanks in costume.
The 62-year-old actor will star in the film with the previous working title You Are My Friend. In the photo, he looks like a carbon copy of Rogers as he sits down a trailer, donning a cherry red sweater over a button-up shirt and tie, khaki pants, and bright blue sneakers. The actor is also sporting gray eyebrows and hair. Hanks' look garnered many praises from fans.
"The response to that casting has been overwhelmingly positive, because even though he doesn't look exactly like [him], essence wise, he's in the same vein," said its director, Marielle Heller.
Film producers Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub said that Heller is the perfect director to make the heartwarming movie come to life. They also reminded viewers that now is a great time to remember all the teachings of the host.
About The Film's Plot
Although still untitled, the film will focus on the life of Fred Rogers, who rose to fame for his show, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and his friendship with journalist Tom Junod who profiled the host for Esquire 20 years ago.
TriStar Pictures said that the film will warm hearts as Junod's cynical character transforms his outlook in life after he hesitantly accepted the assignment to write about the TV icon.
According to the film's director in an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the movie is currently shooting in Pennsylvania and should not be considered as a biopic. Heller even said that she disliked how the movie was announced as such.
"It's really not. It's a movie that's largely focused on a reporter and [Mr. Rogers'] relationship to his life, and how [the reporter's] whole world changes when coming in contact with Fred Rogers," the director added.
Fred Roger's Wisdom
The project was first announced in January, and is written by Noah Harpster and Micah Fitzerman-Blue. According to the director, she was blown away by the script's message of kindness and how it explored the human spirit. She also added that as a mother, she has been so inspired by Rogers' wisdom.
It is set to be released on October next year, but before Rogers' fans can enjoy the movie, they can watch Won't You Be My Neighbor?, a documentary about the host which highlights his career. It premiered during this year's Sundance Film Festival.
The face of the famous children's show passed away 15 years ago at the age of 74.
