Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are set to collaborate again in an upcoming comedy that tells the true story of a legendary feud between two American Shakespearean actors in the 1800s. The film, titled “The Players,” will depict the rivalry between actors Edwin Forrest and William MacCready that dominated New York’s mid-19th century theater scene. Coogan will play MacCready, while Reilly portrays Forrest.
The movie takes place in 1847 and focuses on the tense relationship between the two main characters. Forrest, played by Reilly, was America’s top Shakespearean star at the time. However, his dominance was challenged with the arrival of Coogan’s character, the sophisticated English actor MacCready. Director Peter Cattaneo, known for the hit comedy “The Full Monty,” will direct the project. The screenplay was written by Jeff Pope, a frequent Coogan collaborator.
Pope’s script promises to deliver an insightful and witty dramatization of the intense professional competition and personal animosity between Forrest and MacCready. “Their chemistry is undeniable. The wit and comedy burst from every page of Jeff’s script,” said Dave Bishop from Protagonist Pictures, which will handle international sales.
Coogan and Reilly earned critical acclaim for their previous collaboration in 2018’s “Stan & Ollie,” about comedians Laurel and Hardy. This new film marks another reunion for the comedy stars. It also brings together Coogan, Pope and Cattaneo, who previously worked together on the Oscar-nominated film “Philomena” and the drama “The Penguin Lessons.”
Production of “The Players” is scheduled to begin in early 2025 across multiple European locations. It will be produced by 42 Films, with Protagonist Pictures managing international distribution. The U.S. rights are represented by Creative Artists Agency. For Coogan and Reilly, the movie offers them another platform to showcase their talents in both comedy and serious dramatic roles.
