The first trailer for the biographical film Waltzing With Brando has arrived, offering a glimpse of Billy Zane’s transformation into the iconic Marlon Brando during the height of his career. VMI Worldwide has picked up the film for international sales, with plans to introduce it at the American Film Market.
Directed by Bill Fishman, known for Tapeheads and My Dinner with Jimi, Waltzing With Brando draws from the memoir of Bernard Judge, the architect Brando enlisted to help him achieve an unusual vision. The story unfolds between 1969 and 1974, a pivotal time in Brando’s life as he prepared for roles in The Godfather and Last Tango in Paris.
The cast includes Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory) as Judge, who joins Brando in his quest to create an eco-friendly retreat on a remote island in Tahiti. The supporting lineup boasts Richard Dreyfuss, Camille Razat (Emily in Paris), Alaina Huffman (Smallville), Tia Carrere (Wayne’s World) and James Jagger, son of rock legend Mick Jagger.
The plot follows Brando, portrayed by Zane, who at the time was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. He envisioned an escape from fame and a lifestyle rooted in sustainability. To bring his vision to life, he partnered with Judge, convincing him to leave Los Angeles for Tahiti, where the two could design an eco-friendly sanctuary.
Produced by Dean Bloxom, Fishman, Zane, Doug Dearth and Brett Kerr, Waltzing With Brando is set to close several film festivals, including the Torino and Tahoe Film Festivals. According to VMI’s Andre Relis, who negotiated the deal, the film “represents a unique look at a little-known chapter in Brando’s life.”
VMI Worldwide will handle foreign distribution for the film, which has already sparked interest among international buyers.
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