Madonna Biopic is Now A Netflix Limited Series

Madonna’s track record as a filmmaker leaves much to be desired. After delivering the critically panned “Filth and Wisdom” and the almost unwatchable “W.E.,” she still seems determined to try her hand at directing.

These last few years, Madonna’s been pursuing an autobiographical film about her own life — and she wanted full creative control, including directing and writing duties. It now seems as though, after many failed meetings with studios, Madonna has decided to turn the film into a Netflix limited series with producer Shawn Levy overseeing the entire thing (via Deadline).

The project is meant to center on her own life story, with Julia Garner slated to play the pop icon. Although the project was initially shelved without any public explanation, Madonna hasn’t let that stop her. She’s taken to Instagram, on numerous occasions, to express her frustration after years of development hurdles.

It’s understandable to wonder why a major studio like Universal would gamble on Madonna writing and directing her own biopic. Julia Garner’s casting, at least, feels like a smart choice — she does resemble a young Madonna. Netflix has now come to save the day, but with a caveat: it’s no longer a movie.

Tentatively titled “Who’s That Girl,” referencing both her 1987 movie and hit single, the project was originally backed by Universal in 2020. Diablo Cody, known for “Juno,” worked on an early script draft, but she eventually exited. Erin Cressida Wilson stepped in next, with Madonna credited as a co-writer. That version also stalled. Then, Madonna took it upon herself to write the entire screenplay. No word yet on whether her script will is the final draft.

Madonna has described the film as a depiction of her path as a female artist navigating a male-dominated industry — a narrative that includes the full spectrum of emotions: joy, sadness, madness, triumph, and adversity — all part of her rise to stardom.

I’m also wondering whether Levy would inevitably be directing the limited series. As it stands, he has “Star Wars: Starfighter” planned for production this fall, and “Boy Band,” starring his “Deadpool & Wolverine” stars Hugh Jackman and Reynolds in the early stages of development.