Dwayne Johnson is set to star in the upcoming film Lizard Music, where he plays a 70-year-old character known as Chicken Man, whose closest companion is a 111-year-old chicken named Claudia. The film, directed and scripted by Benny Safdie, has been acquired by Amazon MGM Studios’ United Artists, marking a new collaboration between Johnson and Safdie.
The movie is adapted from Daniel Pinkwater’s novel of the same name. Johnson and Safdie previously worked together on the critically acclaimed documentary The Smashing Machine, and this new project was secured by United Artists and Scott Stuber following competitive bidding.
Amazon MGM Welcomes the Unique Vision of ‘Lizard Music’
Courtenay Valenti, head of film, streaming, and theatrical at Amazon MGM, expressed excitement about the partnership. She emphasized the creative synergy between Johnson and Safdie, praising their work on their previous collaboration. Valenti described Lizard Music as a story that merges timeless qualities with a fresh, imaginative approach.
“We are so thrilled to partner once again with extraordinarily talented Dwayne Johnson, as well as work for the first time with the amazing creator, writer and director Benny Safdie, on ‘Lizard Music,’”
Courtenay Valenti, head of film, streaming and theatrical for Amazon MGM stated.
“Everyone at Amazon MGM and UA is deeply inspired by their previous collaboration on the critically acclaimed ‘The Smashing Machine.’ We are so excited to now collaborate with them on this imaginative, entertaining and cinematic story; ‘Lizard Music’ is a tale that feels both timeless and unique. We are very fortunate that they have trusted us to be their studio partners.”
A Journey into a Secret World of Music and Friendship
The plot follows a young boy who discovers a hidden door that leads to an extraordinary world when he intercepts a clandestine late-night broadcast of lizards performing otherworldly music. His curiosity draws him to Chicken Man and Claudia, the elderly chicken, forming a bond that drives the story forward.
“Stumbles upon a secret late-night broadcast of lizards playing otherworldly music,”
the synopsis reads.
“His search for answers leads him to the eccentric and whimsical septuagenarian Chicken Man, and his beloved companion, a 111-year-old chicken named Claudia — two kindred spirits who found each other at just the right time. United by this shared vision, they set off on an adventure that begins as a hunt for a hidden society but blossoms into something far greater: a voyage through invisible worlds, unexpected harmonies and the unbreakable bond between lost souls who discover magic not only in what they find, but in each other.”
Benny Safdie’s Personal Connection to the Story
Director and writer Benny Safdie revealed that reading the novel to his two sons sparked his enthusiasm for the project. He praised Daniel Pinkwater’s imaginative storytelling and looked forward to bringing this narrative to wider audiences with Johnson playing the central role.
“We were riveted by its imagination and wonder,”
Safdie said.
“I love Daniel Pinkwater as a person and an author; the idea of making a movie where everyone can join the conversation is both thrilling and beautiful. To go on this adventure with Dwayne and to be able to watch him transform and become the Chicken Man is just beyond… I can’t wait!”
Production Team and Industry Support
The production team includes Scott Stuber as a producer along with Nick Nesbitt from United Artists, Safdie’s Out for the Count Productions, Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions, and Magnetic Fields Entertainment represented by David Koplan. The collaboration combines experienced producers and creative talent.
“I’ve been lucky enough to work with Dwayne and Benny on multiple projects and have seen firsthand their incredible talents and connection as artists,”
said Scott Stuber.
“The world they’ve created together for ‘Lizard Music’ is unlike anything either has done before, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring this wonderfully imaginative story to life.”
Dwayne Johnson’s Physical Transformation for the Role
The announcement of Lizard Music surfaced during the press events for The Smashing Machine, where Johnson appeared noticeably thinner after gaining 30 pounds to portray MMA fighter Mark Kerr. He shared his intentions behind the weight change and how it relates to his upcoming character.
I’ve been dieting, Johnson shared at the film’s premiere in Los Angeles.
“Happy to not be carrying all the weight. I’m able to tuck in my shirt now…I don’t look pregnant so it’s all good.”
He described Chicken Man’s physique as fitting a lean, sinewy image similar to a certain seasoned action star:
“Think Clint Eastwood at 75. Sinewy muscles, he’s lean.”
With Amazon MGM Studios backing the project, Lizard Music is anticipated to bring a vibrant and imaginative story to audiences, showcasing Dwayne Johnson’s versatility while exploring themes of friendship, mystery, and the magic found in unexpected connections. This film is positioned to expand Johnson’s portfolio with a distinctive character and narrative, highlighting Safdie’s creative vision and the studio’s commitment to unique storytelling.
