The story of Columbian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar has long fascinated Hollywood. But aside from "Medellin," the Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) starring epic from "Entourage," the character has eluded Tinseltown thus far. But it’s certainly not for a lack of trying. Javier Bardem and Christian Bale were attached to a Joe Carnahan version of “Killing Pablo” back in 2003. That version eventually fell apart and as recently as 2012, Carnahan said he would make it his next movie with Edgar Ramirez likely in the lead role. That production fell through (Carnahan made “Stretch” next), but a completely different Pablo Escobar movie, “Escobar: Paradise Lost” has now been made, likely putting paid to Carnahan’s version.
Starring Benicio del Toro, clearly a perfect casting choice to play Escobar, this rendition of the drug overlord’s story is very different from the law-trying-to-take-the-crook-down iteration Carnahan hoped to make. Directed by Italian actor turned first-time feature-length director Andrea Di Stefano, “Escobar: Paradise Lost” centers on a young surfer vacationing in Columbia who meets the woman of his dreams. Unfortunately for him, he meets her uncle, Pablo Escobar.
“The Hunger Games” star Josh Hutcherson plays the young man, and the film features co-stars Brady Corbet, Carlos Bardem, and Claudia Traisac. Cinematographer Luis David Sansans ("Y Tu Mama Tambien," "Romeo + Juliet") shot the film and Max Richter ("Waltz With Bashir") scored the movie.
Radius-TWC is set to release the movie on November 26th, which likely means a VOD and limited theatrical bow. The film will make its World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. New photos below and check out an international version of the teaser trailer.
