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. More recently, we thought the film might have been turned into a Netflix limited series with producer Shawn Levy overseeing the entire thing (via Deadline).
However, Garner says the film, not its TV incarnation, very much still exists. “That’s supposed to still happen,” Garner recently told the SmartLess podcast recently (via Variety).
Garner, known for Netflix’s ultra popular series “Ozark,” goes on to state that she “owned” audition, which happened three years ago, and had Madonna in attendance.
Garner was cast in the role of Madonna in 2022, having learned to dance and sing for the part. The film is meant to center on the singer’s life story. 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. Garner’s casting, at least, feels like a smart choice — she does resemble a youngr version of the singer. Has Netflix now come to save the day?
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 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.