We’ve got the new Holy Trinity/Tri-Force for you right here: Michael Stipe and Tom Hanks are combining forces to make a movie based on the “man who writes the songs.” Yes, Mr. Barry Manilow. Cue the heavens opening up and golden haired angels pouring out.
As Spinner.com (and Empire Magazine) reports, both Stipe’s and Hanks’ production companies, Single Cell and Playtone respectively, have announced they’ll come together to put out the film. The story follows a group of Manilow fans who make their way to Vegas and find their nights filled with both romantic rendezvouses and the sounds of “Copacabana”. It’s like Detroit Rock City for 50-somethings.
Fans and moviegoers can expect hits like “Weekend in New England”, “Can’t Smile Without You” and “Looks Like We Made It” throughout the film, as Manilow’s back catalogue is said to be heavily featured. What’s more, the Brooklyn musician himself has a cameo!
Naturally, Hanks, Stipe, and Gary Goetzman will oversee the film as producers. As for you concerned R.E.M. fans out there, Stipe was rustled into the project by his production partner Sandy Stern. So rest assured that “Mandi” had no impact on “What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?”. As of now, the film is without a title or release date, but we’ll be sure to pass them along to the Fanilows out there once they’re announced. Until then, the sweet sounds of the Manilow himself…