By There are a few casting decisions in life that just make you scratch your head in awe. I’ll never get over how anyone thought Jared Leto would make a good Joker, and now I’m utterly baffled how someone thought Mel Gibson should play Santa Claus. That’s exactly what’s going to happen in the upcoming film Fatman, a dark action comedy that is in the works for release sometime next year.
Fatman will focus on an “unorthodox” Santa, played by Gibson, that is fighting against the decline of his business. After receiving coal in his stocking, a 12-year-old named Billy hires a hitman to kill Santa and all kinds of hi-jinks will ensue. That’s certainly dark, if not a bit edge load.
The film will be written and directed by Ian and Eshom Nelms, whose work includes such films as Small Town Crime, Lost on Purpose, and Waffle Street. The movie will be produced by Brandon Jones (Rough House Pictures), Nadine de Barros (Fortitude), and Lisa Wolofsky (Skywolf). Executive producers include the likes of David Gordon Green, Danny McBride, and Jody Hill. Filming is set to begin early next year in Canada.
In a statement given to Deadline, de Barros said, “I am excited to be working with the incredibly talented Nelms brothers who have written a unique, highly entertaining script. Mel is the perfect choice as Chris Cringle like we’ve never seen him before. I couldn’t be more thrilled to watch this darkly comedic Christmas film come to life.” Perfect isn’t the word I’d use, but whatever floats your boat.
Mel Gibson Suits Up To Play Santa Claus In Action Comedy ‘Fatman‘ – Cannes [Deadline]
