Martin Scorsese Eyes Frank Sinatra Film: Leonardo DiCaprio And Lawrence In Talks For Iconic Roles

FILMMAKER Martin Scorsese, whose last film Killer of the Flower Moon got nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars 2024, is reportedly preparing for his next project. The project aims to delve into the life of Frank Sinatra in a biopic following his recent film about Jesus. 

Scorsese is eyeing Leonardo DiCaprio to portray the iconic singer-actor, with Jennifer Lawrence potentially taking on the role of Sinatra’s second wife, Ava Gardner, as reported by Variety. The duo previously shared the screen in the 2021 film Don’t Look Up. 

Tina Sinatra, who oversees Frank’s estate, has yet to approve the project, according to Variety. 

If the Sinatra biopic comes to fruition, it would mark the seventh collaboration between DiCaprio and Scorsese, who most recently worked together on 2023’s Killers of the Flower Moon. During a press conference for the film, DiCaprio praised both Scorsese and his frequent co-star Robert De Niro, referring to them as “cinematic father figures.” 

Who Was Frank Sinatra?

Frank Sinatra, who left an enduring mark on the 20th century with his diverse career, passed away in 1998 at the age of 82. From his roles in films like 1962’s ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ to his unforgettable performances of classics like My Way and New York, New York, Sinatra’s legacy remains legendary. 

His personal life, marked by four marriages, added layers to his story. After divorcing his first wife, Nancy Barbato, in 1951, Sinatra married actress Ava Gardner later that same year. However, their union ended in divorce in 1957. Sinatra then married Mia Farrow and later Barbara Marx, staying with the latter until his passing.

Other Scorsese Projects In The Pipeline

In addition to the Sinatra project, Scorsese is reportedly exploring a film centred on Jesus, with Andrew Garfield and Miles Teller potentially joining the cast. Details about their roles are yet to be revealed. Scorsese’s interest in the Jesus narrative was first revealed in May 2023, following a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican. 

In January, Scorsese announced plans to begin filming based on Shusaku Endo’s novel A Life of Jesus in 2024, aiming for a contemporary setting and an approximate runtime of 80 minutes. He expressed a desire to redefine the portrayal of organised religion, aiming for accessibility and shedding any negative connotations associated with it.