If you were a 90’s kid, or a kid at heart, you’ve probably seen the movie Space Jam more than a few times. The concept of NBA star Michael Jordan doing a movie, let alone one filled with the Looney Tunes characters, seemed like a ridiculous concept, but resulted in big bucks and adoration of kids and parents alike. Not to make you feel old, but it turns out that Space Jam will have its 20th anniversary this year, and it will be celebrating in an exciting way.
The Toronto International Film Festival will be producing a live read of the film’s script as part of the TIFF Next Wave Festival. TIFF recently announced this exciting live theater event by listing the event on their official website. The description for the Space Jam anniversary reading is as follows:
In celebration of Space Jam’s 20th anniversary and the NBA All-Star Game in Toronto on February 14, TIFF Next Wave presents a live read of this Looney Tunes/live-action mashup with an exciting lineup of talent from the sports and entertainment worlds. Stay "tooned" via social media for cast announcements!
I don’t know about you guys, but my childhood self just squealed with joy. Space Jam in the flesh? Who wants to pay for my trip to Toronto because I am so into this.
While the synopsis is all that is listed, this is certainly an exciting venture for people who want to get their nostalgia on. No further announcements regarding casting, direction, or the team behind the reading has been announced, but it’s bound to be a cool throwback either way.
Seeing casting unfold for Space Jam Live Read should be interesting. The original talent of the movie was pretty substantial. I’m not sure how captivating Michael Jordan would be live, but Space Jam without him seems almost criminal. After all, no other professional basketball player has quite reached the level of fame that Jordan achieved in the 1990’s, and no other player is known for playing another sport before returning to basketball.
Additionally, comedic greats were in the 1996 film, so I’m eager to see if they decide to reunite for this occasion. Bill Murray and Wayne Knight (aka Newman) both physically appeared as supporting characters in Space Jam. Additionally, Danny DeVito voiced the main villain of the film- a voice that isn’t easy to replicate.
I can definitely see Space Jam Live Read utilizing a new set of modern athletes to play the players who lose their abilities thanks to the aliens. Since the synopsis mentions celebrating the NBA All-Star Game, it would make sense to grab the talent that would already be in town for the all-star game.
We’ll be sure to update you as more information regarding casting is announced. For kicks and giggles, check out the video of the Tune Squad getting ready for the big game. Try not to smile, I dare you.
