Ang Lee puts Focus on 'Woodstock'
Director reteams with Schamus on comedy
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Lee will direct and Focus prexy Schamus will pen the comedy based on Elliot Tiber's memoir "Taking Woodstock: A True Story of a Riot, Concert, and a Life," co-written with author Tom Monte.
Set during the politically turbulent summer of '69, story follows an Everyman working at his parents' motel in the Catskills who inadvertently sets in motion what would become the generation-defining concert.
"Elliot's exuberant and heartfelt story is a perfect window onto the Woodstock experience," Schamus said. "It explores an inspiring historical moment when liberation and freedom were in the air."
The pic will have one lead, based on Tiber, and a colorful ensemble. Speculation about original or period music was not confirmed, though the film is assuredly not going to be about the famed concert itself.
Schamus is aiming to head into production before year's end. Budget is anticipated to fall in the $5 million-$10 million range.
Schamus has teamed with Lee on 10 films, including "Brokeback Mountain," "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and, most recently, "Lust, Caution."
