Pitch Your Movie! Peter Eramo’s “Untitled Hallstrӧm Project”
Peter Eramo from The Magic Lantern is pitching his movie today in our month long blogathon (Check the schedule) following the Hollywood Fantasy Draft we conducted recently. Please share your thoughts and any insights you have in the comments and don’t forget to visit her site!
Previous Pitches:
- Andrew Robinson’s “Untitled Joss Whedon Project“
- Anna’s “Truth and Lies”
- Novroz’s “Sunset Mystery“
- Kai’s “The Time Jumper“
- Next: Marc on Saturday
Pitch for “Untitled Hallstrӧm Project”
By Peter Eramo, Jr. of Magic Lantern Film Blog
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
LOGLINE
A family drama that examines the reuniting of sorts between Lenny, an aging father (who suddenly finds himself a widower) and his youngest son Frankie (a troubled single man in his mid 30’s), who is just beginning to put his life together after making some harmful mistakes in his past. Frankie talks his reluctant father into going on a journey that takes them across the States and into Europe – with the two growing to understand and appreciate one another as they never have before. We watch Lenny try to simultaneously cope with his heart-breaking loss and the introduction of Aniseh, a divorcee, who shows great compassion for him. Trouble awaits the two however, when they return home.
BACKGROUND INFO
I understand that this material does not make for a thrilling summer blockbuster film. But that is not what this movie is. As a producer or director, I would personally want to produce/direct the films that would interest me as a movie-goer. I’m not so interested in CGI or explosions…3D extravaganzas or superhero flick budgets. I am interested in quality…in a well-crafted story with terrific performances, where complex characters communicate and interact with one another and are forced to make difficult decisions. To me, that is high drama. This should be a poignant family drama – and I have secured the ideal director to bring his sure and subtle hand to this project, Swedish filmmaker, Lasse Hallstrӧm (My Life as A Dog, Chocolat, The Cider House Rules, and Once Around).
THE CAST & MAIN CHARACTERS
 | Al Pacino: Plays Lenny Gravini, a man in his late 60’s who has just lost his wife of over 40 years and now does not know what to do with himself. A blue-collar worker all his life, Lenny was a strong provider for his family…a good husband and father. The film is centered on him (it’s a vehicle written with Pacino in mind) – how he deals with the complicated relationships he has with his three sons (with Frankie, in particular), the loss of the only woman he has ever truly known, and the all of the new components that are suddenly introduced into his life. |
 | Adrien Brody: Plays Frankie, the youngest of 3 sons to Lenny and Renata. Frankie has always been smart, but never did things the conventional way. He dropped out of college, started working at a job he hated – and was arrested for stealing money. He spent some time in prison and is seen as the “black sheep” of the family, though his heart is usually in the right place. Now, he lives in a small apartment by himself, working a modest clerical job and putting the pieces of his life back together. He is quiet, but dynamic. |
 | Jessica Lange: Ms. Lange plays Renata, Lenny’s wife who has died of cancer at the film’s opening. Scenes with her are shown throughout the film (1) in flashbacks and (2) when Lenny speaks to her ghost in present time. Renata was a loving housewife and mother, but had a severe anxiety disorder and wrestled with own mental demons, causing much angst and torment to the four Gravini men. |
 | Billy Crudup: Joseph has a snooty wife and two small kids of his own. He is a success in the financial industry and does very well for himself. Joseph has outward resentment towards his dead mother and stopped feeling bad for his father a long time ago. He seemingly wants nothing to do with his brothers or his father and when Frankie goes to him for help or advice, he is reluctant to give either. |
 | Sanaa Lathan: Plays Frankie’s girlfriend, Dalanie. She is a free spirit and loves Frankie very much, accepting him wholly, warts and all. She gives Frankie the room he needs when he takes to traveling with his father, but meets up with the two later. She has yet to meet any member of Frankie’s family and when she finally meets Lenny, she handles his old-fashioned racist views with grace, understanding and an open heart. |
 | Shohreh Aghdashloo: Along their travels, Lenny and Frankie stumble on Aniseh, a divorcee who is on vacation by herself. She and Lenny strike up a conversation and instantly take a liking to each other, though Lenny is completely out of practice in the art of speaking to single women. Aniseh is a cultured, worldly, strong and intelligent woman. She is independent and works as a high-powered executive in a highly reputable marketing firm. She is beautiful and mysterious and throws Lenny completely off guard. |
THEMES
The central themes that the film touches upon are: family, coping with death, second chances, issues of race, love, loyalty, and experiencing new/wondrous encounters.
PLOT BREAKDOWN
ACT ONE
We open on Frankie (Brody) and his daily life – frustrated working a futile job in a cubicle, meeting with his parole officer at a local coffee shop, coming home to his small and unimpressive apartment. He is in the midst of trying to put his life back together. The only true happiness we see in him is when he is with his girlfriend, Dalanie (Lathan). They have a quiet dinner together and we see them together in bed. They speak of their future(s) and family, a subject that Frankie tiptoes around a bit. Dalanie is bright-eyed and optimistic – she wants Frankie forever, warts and all. They make love before turning in for the night. The following morning, Frankie is getting ready for work. It is very early and he is half-awake. Dalanie is still in bed, though awake as she converses with him. The phone rings. It is Lenny, Frankie’s father. He has called to tell Frankie that his mother has passed away. Frankie is paralyzed with shock.
The wake and the funeral of Renata Gravini. The main focus is on Lenny (Pacino), trying his hardest to get through it all. He is frozen and numb, looking older than he really is. Some relatives and neighbors pay their respects; he remains quiet & polite throughout, unsure of how to act. Lenny’s oldest son is apparently too far away and too busy to attend the funeral of his own mother (though sends a nice flower arrangement in his absence). Joseph (Crudup), the middle son, is there with his wife and 2 small kids (Lenny’s grandkids). Joseph is brusque and unsympathetic; he and his family can’t wait to get back into the car and back on the road. Frankie is not there for the wake – and shows up by himself at the funeral, but remains off in the distance. Lenny notices him from afar…and he is glad.
The aftermath of the funeral and Lenny at home. He is alone now for the first time in his life. He and Frankie have a talk – just small talk as both don’t really know what to say. Frankie is very compassionate, but not sure what to say/how to act. Lenny assures his youngest son that he is ok (he is lying) and Frankie goes. The next scenes are of Lenny completely helpless in an eerily empty house: making tuna sandwiches for dinner and eating quietly by himself, not knowing how to do his own laundry, watching TV in silence just for something to do, seeing mail made out to his deceased wife, cleaning the house in an awkward fashion, etc. Flashbacks of Renata (Lange) also take place here and we see Lenny having conversations with his dead wife in the empty house. Frankie calls to check in on him – he says he is fine. However, little by little he is letting himself go. He doesn’t know what to do with himself.
Late one night, Lenny impulsively gets into his car and drives. He drives quite a way and pulls up to Frankie’s apartment complex, but sees that it is late and decides not to go up to his door. He tries to get comfortable and passes out for the night. Early the next morning, Frankie notices his father’s car – approaches it and sees his father asleep. He taps lightly on the window and realizes the state his own father is in. Frankie knows that his father needs his help. He invites him in to his home.
ACT TWO
SEEING THE STATES!!! This act focuses on Lenny & Frankie travelling the country. Lenny has never been anywhere and never really seen anything in the world. The two speak of always wanting to go to Cooperstown together (they share a love for baseball), but never did because of Renata. Renata and her disorders always kept Lenny from doing much of anything in his life and Frankie sees this as a new beginning. On the morning Frankie sees his father sleeping in his car, he very hastily decides to take his father to Cooperstown for a couple of days (he calls his work for the time off). From Cooperstown, the feeling is contagious and before they know it, the two are travelling to various landmark locations across the country – Lenny is living a new life and the two are certainly bonding throughout. Frankie checks in with Dalanie sporadically and Renata is still making her ghost-like appearances, though the mood grows more upbeat throughout. Lenny and Frankie see Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, National Parks, a baseball game in Los Angeles; they go to Washington DC and even Disney World! The two touch on many subjects and become best friends in a way. Frankie speaks of his relationship with Dalanie, but neglects to mention that she is black. It is important that we see Lenny being somewhat uncomfortable at the beginning of this journey and feeling a bit guilty, but slowly opening up and enjoying himself as time goes on. After a couple of weeks, the two return home.
Frankie goes back to his “normal” life, but wants to do more for his father. He goes to his brother Joseph for help and counsel. Frankie sees Joseph at his place of work — Joseph does extremely well for himself and is a great financial success (he always resented his mother and feels little love for her, if any at all. As far as his father goes, he stopped feeling sorry for him a long time ago). Frankie asks if Joseph could take his father in for a little while – until Frankie can take care of him. Joseph emphatically rejects this offer and in the end, is no help to Frankie.
Frankie visits his father and brings Dalanie with him for dinner. Lenny is very old-fashioned and doesn’t even realize his own racism, however subtle. Her being black throws Lenny off a bit and he even makes a few politically incorrect remarks, unaware of the faux pas. Dalanie takes it all in with tremendous grace and understanding – she is all heart here. Talk of their recent travels spurs on another impulsive decision — Frankie says that all three should go to Europe. Frankie tells both to leave everything to him (money/expenses – and his parole officer). He just has a few things to take care of and they can go by next week. The following week, all three are at the airport and on their way to their first stop – Milan, Italy.
ACT THREE
SEEING EUROPE – AND SUFFERING THE CONSEQUENCES. Frankie ignores his parolee status and tells the two he has taken care of it. The three see the sights of northern Italy – Milan, Florence, Venice. They take an overnight train to Paris. When Lenny insists that Frankie and Dalanie go off together for a while, Lenny meets with the beautiful and mysterious Aniseh (Aghdashloo). She is an executive and a divorcee who is travelling by herself. Lenny and Aniseh spend the day together – it is the first time Lenny has ever been with a woman other than Renata. The two couples dine that evening and the feeling could not be happier. Lenny and Aniseh spend a lot of time together in Paris. She tells them of a home in northern France that is available. Before the trio leaves for home, they all decide to buy the house and live in France for good – nothing is keeping them at home and they are so happy here. Plus, Aniseh would be just a train ride away to see Lenny.
Back home – Lenny and Frankie are prepping to move to France for good. When Frankie heads back to his apartment by himself, he is arrested for stealing money once again (money he used to pay for their travels). Lenny is unaware of this. Joseph comes to see Frankie in jail and finally shows some sympathy by bailing his younger brother out. Frankie is going away for a few years this time. He doesn’t regret any of it this time. He feels that it was all worth it. Lenny comes to see Frankie and Frankie insists that Lenny move without him…that he’ll catch up with him before he knows it. Lenny refuses to do it – until Dalanie insists he take her with and the two of them will wait for Frankie’s release.
In the end, we see Lenny moving into his new home in France with Dalanie – the woman he initially thought was no good for his son just because she is African-American. Aniseh comes to visit and break in the new home – and Renata makes a final appearance with her husband, giving Lenny the closure he has so desperately needed.
33 Comments
Another great pitch and very good ensemble of actors (the ones being family resemble each other) and director. I could easily see this being Hallströms next project.
Not really my cup of tea this would be a typical DVD rental.
Haha…thanks, Joel. I know it doesn’t sound like much of a film to HAVE TO go see in theatres, but it’s the kinda stuff I would wait on line for. Thanks for the comment on the casting….
I guess its the Bergmanian heritage that is making itself reminded. =) Sorry I gonna stop with the rant.
For the record I appreciate Hallström a lot more than Ingo. Have you seen “My life as a dog”? The last swedish film he did before moving to hollywood. Its really brilliant.
yes, saw it years ago. Loved it. And you are right…the story for this project does sound like something Bergman would enjoy — though it would have to be mother/daughter instead (i.e. Autumn Sonata)
Still its very Hallströmish too. I didin’t think of the Autumn Sonata connection Ingrid was great in that one.
Reads on top: “Kaiderman from The List is pitching his movie today…”
After reading Kai’s yesterday, I don’t think he’ll want to be associated with such an “everyday-like” movie such as this one….Haha
Oups, my bad. Fixed
grazie, good sir…and I’m sure Kai will be pleased as well….
Otherwise you could trade movies… hmm I might suggest that to Kai. I know the perfect director if his film were to be a swedish production.
I saw that too and found it a little funny
Yeah… good stuff but I’m sticking with mine! haha
yea, you have a great pitch going there. Was very impressed.
Whoah!!! What a poignant and beautifully-written pitch Peter… oh dear, I’ll just shrivel up and hide as this is in a whole new league compared to what I’ve got so far.
I would see this in a heartbeat, Peter, this is a movie where the story and performances are the ‘star’ of the show. And from what you describe in Act 2 and 3, this will have gorgeous scenery as well… you got me at Milan, Florence, Venice
This would be an excellent movie for Pacino to get his acting mojo back!
P.S. My friend Vince who’s also my classic flix contributor actually suggested Hallström as a possible director for my movie.
Ruth, you are too kind. Thank you very much. It’s a simple story, true, but I was thinking of a vehicle to bring Pacino back…in a role we don’t normally see him and where he can truly shine in a understated way. I think he would work well against Brody too. You are right — great opportunity to sweep the viewer away with various locales as the two work through their struggles. So glad you liked it….and don’t worry. I am looking forward to your picth and I am sure it is great. Mine isn’t even really a “pitch,” but more of a plot synopsis. I really should have “sold it” more, pitch-style.
Oh no need Peter, not when you’ve got a solid synopsis like this.
Brody is a versatile actor so yeah, he’d bring a lot to the role. It’s a charming pairing of him and Sanaa. Aniseh is absolutely beautiful and she does strike me as a ‘cultured, worldly, strong and intelligent woman’… so perfect casting right there, too.
Btw, glad I’m not the only with a bunch of themes for the story. At first I thought maybe I’ve got too many in a single movie, but y’know, a compelling drama usually can’t be pinned down into just one or two themes.
true…I think most novels and films have a number of dominant themes that are touched upon. I wouldn’t worry about that at all.
Wow Peter, that was a phenomenal story….I would definitely pay to see this movie. And your cast is spectacular, which is pretty impressive considering you didn’t join the draft until it was halfway over. Send this pitch to Hollywood and get this movie made!
Thank you, Corey. Means a lot, truly. I do love my cast. I came in late and Pacino was still available, which thrilled me. Wouldn’t change any cast member here. I should start a spec and send it to some agents now, right? I love your enthusiasm. Glad to see such positive feedback, as this is a very subtle/simple piece — it’s all in the writing and the script though. Thank you much!!!
Great pitch, Peter! I’m a sucker for a father/son story, so this grabbed me from the outset. I love the Pacino/Brody pairing too. It’s sure going to be a budget-gobbler, with that cast and those locations, but it should look gorgeous!
Well done, Peter!
Nah, these stars read the screenplay and are working on the cheap! Ha! Thanks for the kind words, man. I think the two make for a perfect father-son pair. Not many of them out there so thought this would fit nicely. I’m big on the whole father/son thing too. Once Pacino gets paid, the others will do it for peanuts, right? haha
I don’t usually watch drama but you make the kind of drama I’d love to watch.
Father and son (or parents and children) story always have good heart in it and way more enjoyable that man-woman love story.
I bet the scene willl be great too. Great pitch Peter
Thank you, thank you. Yes, this film should be all heart really without being overly sentimental and cheesy. Thanks for the very complimentary words…much appreciated!
I like it. I would love to see Al Pacino and Adrien Brody work together. Adding Sanaa Lathan to the mix is even better.
Thanks. Yeah, sanaa is just going to get bigger and bigger, I am sure. Brody and Pacino would make a dynamic pairing I think.
Wonderful pitch Peter, just the right balance of details to make it interesting and get you to know enough about the characters. I can’t say that I would see it in theater because I don’t usually seek these kind of movies in theater. However, this is the type of movie that I usually end up raving about after seeing them in the comfort of my home.
Haha, I understand completely. Thank you, Castor. Yes, this kind of film has an acquired taste, I’m thinking – at least as far as people going to the theatres to see it. Maybe when it’s nominated for 8 Oscars, then you’ll go, huh???
Have to agree with Castor on the characters to care about. I like the slow approach of Lenny grieving and the sleeping in the car is a nice touch in a “cry for help” kind of way. Love the road trip angle and especially the character of Frankie (the Black Sheep makes good to help his father despite his own downfall).
Lot better than mine and I think this is finely crafted. Well done!
Yeah, I always had the image of him sleeping in the car in my head for some reason. Glad you cited that one! Thank you for the kind words….glad you liked it!
Not going to lie… the pairing of Hallstrom and this cast is an unusual one as these actors don’t usually play characters I associate with quirky dramas, but there’s something about Pacino and Brody playing father and son that REALLY appeals to me.
It’s been a long time since Pacino has “warmed my heart”, so we’ll see how that goes. He’s incredibly talented, no doubt, but perhaps he’s poised to make one last career shift. It didn’t work so well for De Niro, but Pacino might be able to handle it. I enjoy the eclectic and talented cast. Seeing Lange in a Hallstrom picture makes me wonder why it hasn’t happened before.
Unlike Castor, this is exactly the type of film that I like to see in the theater… usually late Sunday night by myself. I dig what you’re doing with it and depending on the trailer, I’d be in theaters as soon as possible to see it.
much thanks! Yeah, these are my type of films too…the ones I pay money to see. Although there are many like Castor who would wait for DVD, if at all and I completely understand that. Films like this don’t have the widest appeal, but like I stated before, they are movies I would want to see and make. I also think you are not giving Pacino is full props. Maybe I am biased – I think the guy is our greatest actor working today. he’s 70 and still does Broadway theatre, playing Shylock this Fall in Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice. deNiro and Nicholson and others would never be caught dead on a stage. Pacino is committed to his craft still and think he can move some audience members to tears. I was looking at this as the role he needs to play — a role for him to truly shine in as he hasn’t had many the past few years. I am thrilled you enjoyed it and would actually go to see it!!!
Of course you’d give Pacino a great role for him to do what he is so capable of doing.
I like the inclusion of Brody, and Crudup kind of being the snobby son. The story in itself is captivating. Again not one I’d rush to the theater to see, but one of those random gems you find on DVD that you love. I’m just a fan of character driven stories like this and Ruths.
Haha, you know me too well already Ruth. Yes, I have Pacino here. OF COURSE!!! The only thing missing for me is Diane Keaton and Woody Allen and I am all set. This isn’t for Woody though. I like Brody too – he needs to start making wiser decisions…he’s better than what he’s been doing. I understand it’s not your genre and your cup ‘o tea….so you will just have to rent this one — and ANNIE HALL still, of course!!!
I’ve moved mountains and Annie Hall is now on my DVR, so one of these days has come closer.
It’s not my traditional cup of tea, but the character parts I really liked, and as the day went on some of it stuck with me a bit deeper and I found myself curious about the relationships of the brothers and the dad, so it is one of those concepts that are compelling enough to get under ones skin.
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