Anthony Michael Hall and Robert Downey Jr., two iconic figures of Hollywood who first crossed paths on the set of the 1980s John Hughes classic “Weird Science,” have nurtured a friendship that has withstood the test of time. From their simultaneous stint on “Saturday Night Live” to divergent career paths—Hall evolving into a character actor from his teen idol days, and Downey Jr. rising to global stardom as “Iron Man”—their professional lives have remained interconnected.
Now, after decades in the industry, the duo is embarking on a collaborative project that promises to showcase their matured creative vision. They are currently developing a TV series titled “Singularity,” which is set to be Downey Jr.’s directorial debut. This venture not only signifies a pivotal turn in their careers but also a deepening of their professional collaboration, which Hall elaborates was inspired by an idea from Downey himself.
Anthony Michael Hall says he and longtime friend Robert Downey Jr. are developing a ‘Succession’-like TV series https://t.co/5PxSRQm5bw
— Insider Entertainment (@insiderent) June 15, 2024
The concept for “Singularity” initially mirrored the popular HBO series “Succession,” featuring a narrative centered around a family led by a powerful industrial tycoon. Hall was to play one of three sons in a story marked by a blend of drama and comedy. However, the similarities to “Succession” were so pronounced that the project required significant retooling. This led to a recent creative session via Zoom, involving Downey Jr., Hall, and a top producer aimed at steering the project in a new direction.
In his conversation with Business Insider, Hall shared insights into the creative process behind “Singularity,” expressing excitement about the evolution of the project and the opportunity it presents for Downey Jr. to helm the pilot and potentially additional episodes. Downey Jr.’s commitment to not only direct but also act in the series underscores his multifaceted involvement and enthusiasm for the project.
Apart from “Singularity,” Hall is also expanding his horizons behind the camera. He revealed that he has penned a feature script that he intends to direct himself, indicating a shift in his career focus towards more directorial and production roles. This move is fueled by a long-standing passion for storytelling and a desire to control the creative narrative more directly.
Anthony Michael Hall is a wonderful interview. He has great stories. Including this one, about Robert Downey Jr.https://t.co/4FY27vWLWi pic.twitter.com/Akap5Q3JOW
— Sean O’Connell (@Sean_OConnell) June 13, 2024
Hall’s transition to writing and directing represents a natural progression in his career, driven by a desire to explore new creative territories and leverage his extensive experience in the industry. His forthcoming projects, including the one with Downhead Jr., highlight a shift in his professional identity from actor to filmmaker.
Key Points:
i. Anthony Michael Hall and Robert Downey Jr., longtime friends and former co-stars, are collaborating on a new TV series titled “Singularity,” which marks Downey Jr.’s directorial debut.
ii. The concept for “Singularity” originally resembled the HBO series “Succession,” featuring a narrative about a powerful industrial tycoon and his family, necessitating significant changes to the storyline.
iii. The project development included a recent strategy session with a top producer to help guide the new direction of the series.
iv. Hall is also expanding his role in the industry by writing and planning to direct a feature film, signaling a shift towards more behind-the-scenes work in filmmaking.
v. The duo’s collaboration on “Singularity” reflects their evolution from actors to creators and directors, leveraging their decades of experience in Hollywood.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
