Tom Holland to Dance Himself in Fred Astaire Biopic After

Tom Holland has confirmed that his long-gestating Fred Astaire biopic will be his next major acting commitment, following a busy summer that includes shooting Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" and the upcoming "Spider-Man: Brand New Day." The actor, best known for playing Peter Parker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, told reporters that he intends to perform all of the legendary dancer's choreography himself.

Speaking during a promotional event, Holland revealed that the project remains a priority despite his packed schedule. "Fred Astaire is next," he said. "After this summer of 'The Odyssey' and then 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day,' that's what I'm doing." The actor emphasized his commitment to authenticity, adding, "I plan to do all of the dancing myself. I've been training for years, and I'm not going to stop now."

The biopic has been in development for several years, with Holland attached to star and produce. Astaire, who died in 1987 at age 88, is widely regarded as one of the most influential dancers in film history, known for his work with Ginger Rogers in classics such as "Top Hat" and "Swing Time." Holland has previously spoken about his admiration for Astaire and the pressure of portraying such an iconic figure.

A Summer of Two Blockbusters

Before stepping into Astaire's dancing shoes, Holland faces a demanding production schedule. He is currently attached to Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey," a big-screen adaptation of Homer's epic poem that is expected to begin filming this summer. Details about Holland's role in the Nolan project remain under wraps, but the film has generated intense buzz given Nolan's track record with "Oppenheimer," "Tenet," and "Inception."

Immediately after that, Holland will reprise his role as Spider-Man in "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," the fourth installment in the MCU's Spider-Man series. The film, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, is set to begin production later this year. Holland has indicated that this will be a significant new chapter for the character, following the multiverse-shattering events of "Spider-Man: No Way Home."

Physical Preparation for a Demanding Role

Holland's decision to perform his own dance numbers in the Astaire biopic is notable given the actor's background. Holland began his career as a dancer, training in ballet and hip-hop before transitioning to acting. He performed in the London production of "Billy Elliot the Musical," where dance was central to the role. However, Astaire's style presents unique challenges. The dancer was known for his effortless, fluid movement and precise footwork, often captured in long, unbroken takes.

To prepare, Holland has been working with dance coaches and studying Astaire's filmography extensively. "It's not just about learning the steps," he said. "It's about the elegance, the timing, the way he made everything look so easy. That's the hardest part." The actor has also been vocal about his desire to avoid CGI or stunt doubles for the dance sequences, insisting on practical performance.

No Director or Release Date Yet

While Holland has confirmed his involvement and the project's priority status, no director has been officially attached to the Astaire biopic. The film does not yet have a release date, and details about the script and supporting cast remain undisclosed. Holland is producing through his company, and the project has been in development at Sony Pictures, where Holland has a close relationship through the "Spider-Man" franchise.

Rumors have circulated for years about potential directors, ranging from Damien Chazelle to Paul King, but nothing has been confirmed. Holland declined to comment on the search for a director, saying only that he is "taking it seriously" and wants to find the right creative partner.

Balancing Franchise and Prestige Work

The Astaire biopic represents Holland's most ambitious dramatic and physical challenge to date. While he has proven his range in films like "The Devil All the Time," "Cherry," and the Apple TV+ series "The Crowded Room," he has primarily been associated with blockbuster franchises. Taking on a musical biopic, particularly one centered on a figure as revered as Astaire, signals a desire to cement his credibility as a serious actor.

Holland has often spoken about the importance of career longevity and not being defined solely by superhero roles. He previously told The Hollywood Reporter that he wants to emulate actors like Leonardo DiCaprio, who balance commercial and artistic projects. The Astaire film appears to be his most direct attempt at that balance.

Remaining Mysteries

Many questions remain unanswered about the biopic. Who will write the screenplay? Will the film cover Astaire's entire life or focus on a specific period, such as his partnership with Ginger Rogers? How will the film handle Astaire's personal life, including his marriages and his relationship with his sister Adele, his original dance partner? And perhaps most importantly, who will play Ginger Rogers?

For now, Holland is focused on the immediate future. "I've got a lot of work ahead of me," he said. "But I've never been more excited about a role. Fred Astaire changed the way we think about dance on film, and I want to honor that legacy." With a summer of Nolan and Spider-Man ahead, the Astaire biopic will have to wait its turn - but Holland has made clear that when it comes, he will be ready to dance.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter