Benny Safdie, co-director of Uncut Gems, recently revealed that he will not be directing Adam Sandler's next collaboration with Elara Pictures, alongside his brother Josh. The duo received critical acclaim for their work with Sandler in the past, particularly for Punch Drunk Love, which propelled Sandler into the spotlight as a potential Oscar nominee. Although Sandler did not ultimately receive an Academy Award nomination, he will be reuniting with the Uncut Gems filmmakers for a new project.
In a recent interview with GQ, Safdie explained that he won't be joining forces with his brother again to direct Sandler's latest significant role. He stated that the untitled film is currently being developed by Elara, and his brother Josh Safdie and producer Ronald Bronstein have been involved in its development while Benny was occupied with other projects.
Elara remains in operation. We engage in numerous documentary projects, continuously generating a stream of ideas. There emerged a sense that certain subjects I wish to delve into do not necessarily align with Josh's interests at this moment. Hence, we adopt a divide and conquer approach. If he wants to pursue a particular narrative, he is free to do so, while I will delve into a couple of different ventures. This course of action seems like a logical progression based on previous experiences. [...]. Ultimately, it boiled down to the fact that this path resonates with me currently and I must embrace it.
Benny Safdie's Acting Career Is Extremely Promising
Following his collaboration with Robert Pattinson in Good Time, a film directed by the Safdie brothers, the multi-talented Safdie started to gain recognition as an actor. He subsequently secured roles in notable movies like Pieces of a Woman and Licorice Pizza. Safdie's television breakthrough came with his appearance in Disney+'s Obi-Wan Kenobi, although his character only appeared in a single episode. Additionally, he showcased his acting prowess in Claire Denis' Stars at Noon and achieved critical acclaim for his role in Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, making it one of the year's most well-received films.
Safdie is set to make an appearance in Oppenheimer, where he will play Edward Teller, a significant figure in the Manhattan Project and instrumental in the success of the Trinity test. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Robert Downey Jr., and Florence Pugh, among others. Safdie displays a strong on-screen presence, which explains his desire to pursue this venture alongside his work at Elara.
Although Safdie won't be directing the upcoming Sandler movie, he collaborated with his brother on the screenplay. Limited information is available about the film, except that it revolves around the world of sports memorabilia and features Megan Thee Stallion as a co-star. Given the focus on basketball in Uncut Gems, it's only natural that they would continue this theme with Sandler portraying a character entangled in another anxiety-inducing sports setting. More details are expected to emerge soon, though the ongoing writers and actors strikes may affect the development of this mysterious project.
Source: GQ