With every role Ellen Page takes on, she seems to further develop into one of the most enjoyable actresses to watch. Her success in front of the camera is due in no small part to the quality of filmmakers she’s had the privilege of working with. Whether it’s Christopher Nolan, Brett Ratner, or indie directors like Jason Reitman and Zal Batmanglij, Page has seen a variety great minds at work behind the camera. Now it’s her turn to use all that knowledge she’s picked up, as she’ll be making her directorial debut with Miss Stevens.
Page already has Anna Faris attached to lead the film, but no other word on casting or whether Page will also take a role has been revealed.
The story, by Julia Hart, revolves around a teacher (Faris) whose life is in disarray. She chaperones a group of high schoolers on a weekend trip to a state drama competition and is able to rediscover her own self-worth through the admiration and humanity of her students. Sounds like a feel-good tale if I’ve ever heard one.
Page is an extremely talented actor, and while that doesn’t have any relation to how well she’ll direct, we’ve seen an onslaught of quality actors proving themselves as bonafide directors in the last few years. George Clooney, Ben Affleck, and Jon Favreau have all proved they can be just as successful behind the camera as in front of it (perhaps more successful in Affleck’s case). Hopefully Page follows the mold they’ve set.
No specific timetable has been set for the film as Page is busy working on X-Men Days Of Future Past and Faris is doing a Chuck Lorre CBS pilot, but hopefully more details are revealed as they free up their schedules.
What do you think of Ellen Page as a director? Is Miss Stevens a good film for her to start with? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
