Phoenix Pictures has set Jack Huston to direct the upcoming feature film Joseph Merrick, revolving around the individual known in history as the Elephant Man. The film will offer a fresh and deeply emotional perspective on Merrick’s remarkable life, illuminating the untold story behind the legend.
Aiming to start production later this year, the film will focus on Merrick’s final months, exploring his transformative journey and the unexpected, life-altering relationships he forms along the way. As Merrick discovers moments of true connection and humanity, the film will shine a light on the profound, often overlooked aspects of his experience, challenging what we think we know about his life and legacy.
“I’ve long been fascinated by the life of Joseph Merrick — marked by unimaginable adversity, yet defined by his profound kindness, perseverance and strength,” says Huston. “His journey is a testament to what we are capable of when we choose love and compassion over cruelty and indifference. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to explore the lesser-known parts of Joseph’s astonishing life, and I’m honored to have the chance to collaborate with such a passionate and dedicated team.”
Joseph Merrick will be produced by Kate Cohen, Mike Medavoy, David Dobkin and Huston. EPs include Michael Peterson, Ilan Sharone, Matt Felker and Katie Menke.
Best known as an actor in projects like Boardwalk Empire, American Hustle, Fargo (Season 4) and House of Gucci among other credits, Huston is soon to be seen in the upcoming series Spider-Noir. His directorial debut Day of the Fight premiered at the 2023 Venice Film Festival and went on to win numerous awards for Huston throughout its festival run.
“This project has been a labor of love for all of us, and we’ve been relentless in our search for the right filmmaker to bring Joseph Merrick’s story to life,” Medavoy said. “From the moment I saw Jack Huston’s Day of the Fight, I knew he was the perfect choice to tell the story. Among the many things that have excited me is that the way Jack sees this story reminds me of Milos Forman when we made One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. I couldn’t be more thrilled about the poetry, wit, and feeling of human empathy that he will bring to this.”
Medavoy’s distinguished career includes producing Black Swan, The Thin Red Line, Shutter Island and having been part of seven Best Picture Oscar-winning films and 10 nominated films. Dobkin’s producing credits include Vacation and The Judge.
“Merrick has been a passion project for Mike, Kate, and myself. We have been unflinching in our pursuit to find the perfect filmmaker to direct this and bring a fresh perspective to Joseph’s story,” Dobkin said. “I knew Jack Huston was the one when I saw Day of the Fight. His deeply humanistic approach, coupled with his ability to craft visually arresting and emotionally raw storytelling, makes him the perfect fit to helm this film. We could not be more excited to have him on board.”
Huston is represented by 111 Media, CAA and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole.
