Taking no time to revel in his Best Actor nomination, Bradley Cooper seems intent on not only expanding his filmography as an actor, but also stepping behind the camera for his first film. The most recent project that has potential to serve as his directorial debut is an English remake of Kokowaah.
In the original German film, Henry (played by Til Schweiger, who also directed) is an unsuccessful writer who finally catches a break with the opportunity to co-write a screenplay based on a best selling novel written by his ex-girlfriend. Henry’s newly found good fortune is halted though when Maddy, his daughter from a one-night stand, lands on his doorstep. Further complicating the story is the fact that Trevor, Maddy’s presumed biological father, is unsure of how to handle the situation and the two men are forced to re-evaluate their lives.
Kokowaah was the highest grossing film in Germany in 2011, and its sequel recently opened at number one there. The American adaptation is being shaped as a star vehicle for Cooper, who is producing through his 22nd & Indiana banner. There’s also the possibility of Cooper directing.
It makes sense that Cooper would want to branch out into directing. More and more actors are doing it, and once you’re a Best Actor nominee, you’ve basically got the power to do whatever you want in Hollywood these days. With a great film to draw from and a quality script, this could be an excellent debut for the extremely talented actor.
The script is written by Scott Rothman & Rajiv Joseph who also penned Draft Day, the script that made the Black List this year, so the potential is definitely there for a great film.
What do you think of Cooper making his directorial debut with Kowowaah? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
