Will Smith Picking Flowers for Algernon?

While we reported earlier today that one Will Smith project appeared to be dead, it seems Smith is picking up another. Pajiba is reporting that Will Smith has signed on to star and produce an adaptation of the novel Flowers for Algernon.

The 1959 novel by Daniel Keyes had been adapted before, with the 1968 film Charly, which Cliff Robertson picked up an Academy Award for. This modern-day take on the story is being set up at Sony with Smith's production company Overbrook Entertainment to produce as well.

The story centers on a man of low intelligence who is the first to undergo a surgery that is said to raise intelligence. While the operation is successful, and his IQ raises from 68 to 185, the side effects include social setbacks where he feels ostracized from society.

It doesn't seem that a writer or director has been set for the project, but the site speculates that Smith collaborator Gabrielle Muccino, who directed Smith in The Pursuit of Happyness and Seven Pounds, could be an ideal candidate.


Sources: Pajiba

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Comments (9)

  1. Cripple

    I like your idea Fallen, I could picture Peter Jackson doing a great job on this film.

    2 years agoby @crippleFlag

  2. The Narrator: The Better Man

    Personally this sounds really cool and Will does deserve his Oscar. But I don't want Muccino to direct. I would prefer someone with a more sci-fi/drama feel to it. Like THX-138 meets Radio. So my director choice would be Peter Jackson seeing as how he is adapting the Lovely Bones. I know it seems a bit off, but I can really, really see this as a slightly futuristic inner epic. And more than oscar worthy with Peter Jackson. I mean hell what else is he doing besides Tintin.

    2 years agoby @narratorFlag

  3. Cripple

    I agree ZanyZap. If done right Smith could finally get his Oscar.

    Oli, I remember reading the book in middle school too. Really good.

    Yeah, I really hope Muccino gets the helm on this, he is one of the most underrated directors around right now, hopefully this will give him the recognition he deserves. This movie is perfect for him.

    2 years agoby @crippleFlag

  4. Mushy

    HEY DAVE RIESS....

    I DIDN'T POST THIS STORY.

    MASH

    2 years agoby @mushyFlag

  5. ZanyZap

    This has serious potential. As much as I love to watch Will battle aliens and fistfight robots, his dramatic side is more appealing. If done right, this could possibly, finally snag him that much-deserved Oscar. And yes, the source material reeks of Muccino. Personally, I hope he directs. A combination of his last two films, in regards to tone, would be perfect for Flowers.

    I'll have to pick up a copy and reread it.

    2 years agoby @zanyzapFlag

  6. Oli

    I remember reading this book...maybe in middle school? Could be good.

    2 years agoby @reviloleeFlag

  7. B3njamin

    Will Smith Would play that role.

    2 years agoby @b3njaminFlag

  8. -comrade-

    I'd watch it.

    2 years agoby @taberjohnson18Flag

  9. Delgren

    This has Muccino's name written all over this, couldn't see any one else making it.

    2 years agoby @delgrenFlag

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