Universal Pictures has today debuted a first look image from Unbroken, the upcoming true drama directed and produced by Academy Award winner Angelina Jolie. The film follows the epic drama of the life of Louis “Louie” Zamperini (pictured below) and is adapted from Laura Hillenbrand’s book, “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption.”
Universal first acquired the rights to tell Zamperini’s life story in 1957, planning the project as a starring vehicle for Tony Curtis as his follow-up to Spartacus.
Jolie and Zamperini, neighbors in the Hollywood Hills, have become close friends over the development of the film, as the filmmaker has listened to the war hero recount the incredible incidents of his life over many months of preparation.
Zamperini gave Jolie a golden running shoe pendant, a prize from one of his earliest races, which she will wear every day as she helms the film in Australia over the coming months.
Jack O’Connell earned the starring role and will appear as Zamperini. O’Connell recently spent several afternoons meeting with Zamperini at his home to hear the man he’ll be portraying recount his incredible tale firsthand. Zamperini retains many keepsakes from his adventures in his home. Seeing Zamperini’s World War II bomber jacket, O’Connell asked permission to put it on, which Zamperini gladly gave. The jacket fit O’Connell perfectly and became one of the first moments of him inhabiting the life of this legendary hero.
“It will be hard to make a film worthy of this great man,” says Jolie. “I am deeply honored to have the chance and will do all I can to bring Louie’s inspiring story to life. Everyone involved in the film shares this deep responsibility. Like all readers of Laura’s book and all people who love and admire Louie, I am a fan who has learned so much. He has made me a better person.”
“Angelina is a human dynamo,” says Zamperini, “and I know she will tell this story in the right way. I”ve received so many letters and talked to so many people who say that Laura’s book has helped them when they were going through hard times. I believe the movie will reach even more people with that message.”
Unbroken hits theaters on December 25, 2014.
