This may be old news to some, but Eddie Murphy has fallen off his dream project of playing Richard Pryor in a biopic based on the comedian. Who took his place? Well, none other than... Marlon Wayans?
Marlon Wayans for Richard Pryor: Is it Something I Said
Though Marlon Wayans is best known for goofy (aka lame) roles from Wayans Brothers films and In Living Color, the actor does have Requiem for a Dream on his filmography and that was a damn impressive dramatic performance by him. Looking back, I'm somewhat surprised that he didn't try to further develop his career in more demanding roles.
So here he is, taking a serious shot at a noteworthy performance once again and he's off to the right start. According to Entertainment Weekly, Wayans filmed a 13-minute screen test where he "transforms into Pryer" for Richard Pryor: Is it Something I Said. This same video secured the part for him; and maybe sent Murphy packing.
While the film will no doubt feature some comedy, its main focus will be the dramatic story of Pryor's battle with drug addiction; something Marlon should be familiar with since he dealt with a similar topic in Requiem for a Dream.
Add to Heffee!
