With the disappointing announcement that Baz Luhrmann’s 3D adaptation of “The Great Gatsby” will not release for at least 6 additional months comes speculation as to the reasons for the delay. Fans of the Aussie filmmaker, lovers of Leonardo DiCaprio, and millions of readers anticipating the star-filled adaptation will all have to wait much longer for the film’s release. Here are a few possible reasons for the extended wait on the 4th film adaptation of this iconic novel.
Justifying a 3D version of a 1922 story
Special effects is the only official reason provided by Warner Bros. as to why the release has been delayed. Baz Luhrmann is no stranger to visual spectacles, as his trademark vision brings his films to life in a truly unique way. But the man behind “Moulin Rouge” and “Australia” has quite the task this time around, trying to justify why to make a dramatic story set in 1922 into a 3D film. Not only is 3D burnout spreading with viewers, but millions of readers worldwide are scratching their heads as to why “The Great Gatsby” needs the added dimension or extra cost in ticket price. Not only is this Luhrmann’s first foray into 3D filmmaking, but he is tasked with proving its merits on a story known and beloved by book readers everywhere. It is no wonder delays would arise, as the adaptiation really must go above and beyond all expectations.
Re-shooting Tobey Maguire
Rumors abound that the former “Spiderman” star must return to Sydney, Australia for re-shoots. As the film’s main character and narrator, it is not uncommon to need to return to the set after original production ends. But Tobey Maguire seems to be alone, as fellow actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan are not due back on set. Whether this is simply the nature of being the lead role or if there are frustrations with Maguire’s performance is anyone’s guess. The contradicting stories from Fox Studios and Baz Luhrmann’s camp suggests that something is not quite right with the current version of the film, and could be a major factor in the decision to delay the release.
Releasing a summer story in summer
Actor Joel Edgerton, who plays Tom Buchanan in the film and is currently seen starring in “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” told Entertainment Weekly that “it feels appropriate” that the film be released in summertime, as the story is set in that season. While this seems like a convenient excuse, viewers may be more in the mood for beach house decadence in summertime rather than the cold harsh days of winter. It may be doubtful that this is a real reason to delay a multi-million dollar film, but as a strategic move, the film may get a better chance at a solid box office and at standing out amidst summer blockbusters rather than in the thick of award competition season.
The release of “The Great Gatsby” will certainly entice millions of viewers, regardless of when it occurs. From fans of the book to lovers of Baz Luhrmann films, many have been speculating about this film since it began production. An additional six months of anticipation could prove to be a good thing for the film’s success, despite anyone’s frustrations with it falling out of contention for this year’s award season. Here’s hoping that this move is truly a strategic one and not a sign that this film does not quite hit its expected mark.
