Nikolaj Arcel to Direct Matt Damon in Robert F. Kennedy Biopic
Nikolaj Arcel, the director of “The Dark Tower.”
According to recent reports, the long-awaited Robert F. Kennedy biopic starring Matt Damon has finally found its director. Nikolaj Arcel, known for his work on “The Dark Tower” and “A Royal Affair,” is set to helm the project. Arcel will also collaborate on the screenplay with Rasmus Heisterberg, his co-writer on “A Royal Affair,” and Felipe Marino, the screenwriter behind “The Sacrament.”
Damon to Portray RFK
Matt Damon will take on the role of Robert F. Kennedy, focusing on a particularly poignant period in his life. Kennedy was assassinated on June 5, 1968, at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, shortly after winning the California and South Dakota primaries and emerging as a strong contender for the Democratic presidential nomination.
Previous Depictions
The assassination at the Ambassador Hotel was previously depicted in the 2006 film “Bobby,” written and directed by Emilio Estevez, and starring Anthony Hopkins.
Damon’s Passion Project
Damon is not only starring in the new biopic but also serving as a producer. He initially expressed interest in making a Kennedy biopic back in 2010, but the project remained in development limbo due to the lack of a director. Earlier reports suggested that the film would be based on the book “Robert Kennedy: A Life.”
Focus on Grief and Transformation
Reportedly, this Robert F. Kennedy biopic, led by Matt Damon, will primarily explore the period following his brother’s assassination. Damon has previously stated that Robert F. Kennedy was a fascinating figure, but biopics are notoriously challenging to make. With Nikolaj Arcel at the helm, the film is expected to offer a unique perspective on Kennedy’s life and legacy. Production is slated to begin next year.