A biopic based on the life of late Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister is in the works, according to Deadline. Production on the film is scheduled to begin in 2021.
Lemmy, as it is currently titled, will be directed by Greg Olliver, who was nominated for a SXSW Film Festival Audience Award for his 2010 documentary of the same name.
The idea for the biopic has been in development since 2013, Olliver told the publication. Motörhead manager Todd Singerman and Steffan Chirazi will serve as executive producers.
“If the last five years of his absence has taught us anything, it is that he was more unique than anyone could ever have known because no-one touches the quality and sheer freedom of the man,” the two said in a statement. “Greg is a deeply-trusted part of our circle, and we are delighted to see this film coming to fruition.”
“Everything you’ve heard about Lemmy is probably true…” said Olliver. “Not because he was embracing rock n’ roll clichés, but because he was creating them. Marlboro Reds and Jack Daniel’s for breakfast, speed for dinner – all true. But behind that steely-eyed façade of rock n’ roll was also a compelling, complicated and lion-hearted man who stayed the course and never gave up playing the music that made him happy. “
According to reports, the film will focus on Kilmister’s early life, from his childhood in England, to becoming a roadie for Jimi Hendrix, to his time as a member of Hawkwind.
The screenplay for Lemmy was written by Medeni Griffiths with additional writing by Greg Oliver. The film is produced by Andre Relis (CEO of VMI Worldwide) and Damon Lane.
Ian Fraser “Lemmy” Kilmister, died December 28, 2015 at the age of 70.