WhileTed Melfiwaits for hisWoody HarrelsonmovieFruit Loopsto find a new home, ther filmmaker is getting hisSt. Vincentgang back together, asMelissa McCarthyandChris O’Dowdare in talks to star in the comedyThe Starling, which Melfi will direct from a 2005 Black List script byMatt Harris.
McCarthy and O’Dowd will play a married couple who suffer a tragedy that puts a strain on their relationship. O’Dowd heads off to deal with grief in recovery, while McCarthy stays home in her backyard, seeking solace in a beautiful garden. Unfortunately for her, a large black starling has built a nest and taken up residence there as well, which prompts her to track down a veterinarian to humanely deal with the situation. According toDeadline, the emotional story is reportedly “an allegorical tale of how love can carry one through grief,” and it’s said to be comparable toSt. Vincentin terms of its tone.
Keanu ReevesandIsla Fisherwere reportedly circling the script at the same time thatDome Karukoski(Tolkien) was poised to direct, but that incarnation of the project never took flight. Originally, the spouse squaring off against the starling was the husband, but now, obviously, the roles have been reversed. It’s a wise move, especially given McCarthy’s track record in comedies.
Limelight will fully financeThe Starling, which is being produced byDylan SellersandChris Parker, as well as Melfi and his wife, actressKimberly Quinn.Alex Dongwill serve as an executive producer on the project, which could go before cameras as soon as this summer. He found himself with an open slot when Disney-Fox declined to move forward withFruit Loops, which is now being shopped to other studios, with Paramount reportedly expressing interest.
It’s good timing for Melfi, as his likely leading lady McCarthy is coming off an Oscar nomination forCan You Ever Forgive Me?and has the DC-branded crime dramaThe Kitchencoming later this summer. She and O’Dowd previously co-starred inBridesmaidstogether. McCarthy is represented by CAA and MGMT Entertainment, while O’Dowd is repped by WME and 3 Arts.Hidden Figuresdirector Melfi is repped by UTA.
