Barry Levinson to Direct Biopic on Legendary Director Elia Kazan

Director Barry Levinson is set to helm a biopic about the life and career of Elia Kazan, the influential Hollywood filmmaker known for classics like "On the Waterfront" and "East of Eden." The project, tentatively titled "A Life," is based on Kazan's 1988 memoir and is being written by Levinson and newcomer Jina Umakanthan.

Kazan, a towering figure of Hollywood's Golden Era, directed films that featured iconic actors such as Marlon Brando, James Dean, and Marilyn Monroe. His career, however, was also marked by controversy, notably his testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1952 during the McCarthy era.

Levinson, an Academy Award winner for "Rain Man," has stated that Kazan's work resonated with him, citing the director's exploration of human complexity and imperfection. Levinson has previously drawn inspiration from Kazan in his own directorial efforts, including "The Natural" and "Diner."

Gene Kirkwood, who produced the original "Rocky," is also producing the Kazan biopic. Kirkwood is a subject in the upcoming film "I Play Rocky," which depicts his experiences in the film industry.

Levinson recounted a brief encounter with Kazan, where the elder director observed Levinson and remarked that he "look[ed] like a director," a moment that left Levinson star-struck.

Kazan's granddaughter, Zoe Kazan, recently debuted her own adaptation of "East of Eden" for Netflix. Levinson indicated he has not yet spoken with her about the project but is open to it.