'Golden': Universal Pictures shelves Pharrell Williams's musical in post-production
What's the story
Universal Pictures has decided to permanently shelve the movie musical Golden, despite being in the advanced stages of post-production, reported Variety.
The film, directed by Michel Gondry, was based on the childhood of acclaimed musician Pharrell Williams (51) and featured a star-studded cast including Halle Bailey and Janelle Monae.
However, it failed to meet expectations leading to its cancelation.
The studio is expected to absorb approximately $20 million in production costs.
Production details
'Golden' was a unanimous disappointment, say insiders
Golden, originally called Atlantis, was funded by Universal as part of their decades-long creative partnership with Williams.
"When all of us got into the editing room we collectively decided there wasn't a path forward to tell the version of this story that we originally envisioned," Williams and Gondry told Variety.
"While we're disappointed we can't deliver this film, we have incredible partners at Universal and will collaborate in a different capacity again soon."
Financial impact
Universal to bear financial burden of the cancelation
Universal Pictures will reportedly absorb the estimated $20 million in costs already incurred on Golden's production.
The film was in early post-production when the decision to cancel it was made, meaning it will remain unfinished but all involved parties have been compensated for their work.
This move by Universal is unusual as studios typically avoid walking away from films this far along in production.
Release date
'Golden' was set to release on May 5
The film was originally slated for a wide theatrical release from Universal Pictures on May 5.
However, Variety reported that this date had been internally pushed last year.
The ensemble cast of Golden included Kelvin Harrison Jr., Bailey, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Brian Tyree Henry, Monae, Missy Elliott, Jaboukie Young-White, and Quinta Brunson.
Film theme
'Golden' was a celebration of Black life and culture
In a previous interview with Empire magazine, Williams had shared more about Golden.
He called it "a musical expedition set in the summer of 1977 in Virginia Beach."
"It's a coming-of-age story about self-discovery and pursuing your dreams, but it's so much more magical than that. It's a celebration of Black life, Black culture, and most importantly, Black joy."
The film was to feature original music from award-winning songwriting duo Pasek and Paul with Williams.