Eric Morecambe's life story to be turned into feature film
- Bob Golding is set to revive his award-winning role as Eric Morecambe in a new feature film
- Mr Sunshine is based on the Olivier award-winning biographical play Morecambe
- Writer Tim Whitnall has adapted his original script for the film, which is now seeking funding
A new film biopic of comedian Eric Morecambe is in development, producers have announced.
They tease: "At the climax of a chaotic performance, a famous comedian collapses on stage. As bedlam breaks out all around him, the veteran performer's life flashes before his eyes..."
Acclaimed Morecambe impersonator Bob Golding is set to star in the film, Mr Sunshine, which is now seeking funding.
The production comes from Evolution Productions, the same team behind short online film The Last Laugh, which also stars Golding in the same role.
If funding is secured director Paul Hendy will helm the project, whilst a script has already been written by BAFTA-winner Tim Whitnall, based on his own 2009 Olivier award-winning play Morecambe, in which Golding also starred.
Whitnall has previously written the BBC Four biopic The Best Possible Taste: The Kenny Everett Story, whilst Hendy also directed The Last Laugh. Actors Wendi Peters and Kate Roddy have been associated with the project in development, but are not as-yet signed up for the final feature.
The original Morecambe play debuted at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2009 before securing an acclaimed West End run.
Bob Golding tweeted of the news: "I'm immensely honoured to have been part of this exciting prospect ... putting Morecambe the play on the big screen... via the huge talents of Tim Whitnall & Paul Hendy would be extremely exciting."
The independent film is now seeking investors and would likely go into production in 2019 if successful. Further details would likely be revealed once all funding is secured.
A taster video has been published to illustrate the film's style and quality of performances and production.