We’re now over two years since Michael Haneke took the Palme d’Or and won an Oscar for “Amour,” and the director is taking his time getting back behind the camera. Earlier this year, it was reported that he was planning to shoot his next picture, “Flashmob,” this summer. But it looks like those plans have shifted as the filmmaker seems to still be in the process of figuring out exactly how he wants to present his tale.
Haneke was recently in Copenhagen, where he gave a masterclass, and Montages reports the director stated “Flashmob” would likely not shoot this summer. Part of the reason is that he’s apparently waiting for a certain, unnamed actress to take a role in the film (“I’m waiting in line,” he said) and the other is that he’s still not decided on the visual/tonal aesthetic he wants to use. In short, it seems all very early at the moment. “I too often say too much about the future of my projects, and I’ve never managed to keep my promises in advance,” Haneke stated. It is a nice proverb that reads ‘Do not sell the skin before the bear is shot’. ”
And certainly, we can see why Haneke wants to ensure that all the elements are just so, as the premise for “Flashmob” is a bit different than his usual fare. The story will follow a group of characters who connect through the internet and are brought together by the titular event at the end, with the movie thematically exploring the relationship between media and reality. Interesting stuff for sure.
So, any guesses on who Haneke might be waiting for? And previous collaborators he wants to work with again? Hit up the comments section and let us know.