Why Brad Pitt’s Jeff Buckley Biopic Was a Dream That Never Came True

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As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but feel that the discovery of Jeff Buckley‘s music comes at just the right moment in life for many of us, a sentiment beautifully expressed by Amy Berg, director of the ‘It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley’ documentary. This profound truth was further validated when the film premiered at Sundance on January 24, 2025, offering an insight into why Brad Pitt’s long-awaited biopic about the enigmatic and adored musician never materialized. In a recent interview with Variety, Amy Berg and Jeff Buckley’s mother, Mary Guibert, shed light on this unrealized dream, providing us with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the life and artistry of this extraordinary talent.

If you haven’t yet discovered the music of Jeff Buckley, here’s a brief introduction: Known for his powerful, emotive vocals and masterful guitar skills, Jeff Buckley was an enigmatic figure whose unique style transcended musical genres. His most famous work, the album Grace, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. A son of the equally legendary jazz musician Tim Buckley, Jeff’s life was shrouded in mystery and tragedy. His passionate singing and evocative lyrics have drawn fans from all walks of life, with some even trying to bring his story to life on the big screen.

The Jeff Buckley/Brad Pitt Project That Wasn’t

In the throes of his popularity in the 2000s, Brad Pitt was among several individuals keen on producing a biopic about Jeff Buckley. He even extended an invitation to Buckley’s mother at his highly exclusive and Jennifer Aniston-obsessed wedding, hoping to persuade her that he was the right person for the job of creating a biopic about her son. If you were a teenager in the ’90s, this trivia might leave you utterly astounded and amazed. Or, as Guibert humorously put it, “If twenty people are calling you, and one of them is Brad Pitt, who would you choose to meet?

Despite the charisma and style that Brad Pitt exuded during the early 2000s, Guibert remained unconvinced that he was suitable for the role. She harbored doubts about whether he could pull off the performance convincingly, to the extent that it is said she told him, “We’re going to change your hair color, use brown contact lenses on those blue eyes, and when you open your mouth, Jeff’s voice will come out.

Is it apparent to anyone else that comment carries a subtle, disapproving glance? Goodness gracious, Mrs. Buckley! Yet, I suppose such restraint is necessary when safeguarding your son’s legacy, especially since that son is renowned for being one of the most tragically cut-short musical icons in contemporary history.

Despite her doubts, it seems she might have had valid concerns given the complexities involved in his tale. In the end, Berg’s proposal was the one chosen and brought to fruition. However, her documentary didn’t start off smoothly either. Originally, Berg intended to create a narrative film based on Buckley’s story, but had a sudden change of heart. As she shared with Variety, “I initially wanted to make a dramatic film about Buckley’s life, but then I had an epiphany.

After delving into his voicemails, DAP player recordings, demos, and journals, the idea of this being anything other than a documentary seemed implausible to me. I was unsure how one could effectively portray Jeff in a scripted manner.

Thus, a fresh venture came to life, and there’s no need for concern about Pitt’s absence – he remains connected to the tale of Buckley, serving as an executive producer rather than the main actor. (By the way, it’s fair to say that the role has become too old for him now since Buckley passed away at 30 years old.)

It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley will premiere at Sundance on January 24, 2025.

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2025-01-24 16:01