The Joker playing Hugh Hefner almost sounds like a joke, especially considering the controversies surrounding all those involved.
Directed by Brett Ratner of Rush Hour fame, there’s no doubt that everyone will have their eyes on this film. Apparently it’s been simmering since 2007, and Leto and Ratner even attended Hefner’s 91st birthday party at the Playboy Mansion this year. Unfortunately, Leto wasn’t able to meet him before his death on September 27.
According to Ratner, Leto, who is an old friend of his, was very keen for the role, saying that he wanted to “understand” Hefner. Ratner also said: “I really believe Jared can do it. He’s one of the great actors of today.”
However, the decision has been met with backlash. Hugh Hefner isn’t the most popular guy to begin with, for obvious reasons. That, combined with Leto and Ratner, seems to be the last straw for a lot of people. The LA Times referred to it as “something of a perfect storm of problematic people”, which is not really an exaggeration.
Ratner has been known for his sexism, racism and homophobic slurs in the past. Leto has been criticised for his damaging and stereotypical role of a transgender woman in Dallas Buyers Club, for which he won an Oscar. Mix all of it together, and it’s bound to be a nightmare.
Hefner is famous for supposedly ‘starting a revolution’ but, let’s be real, that revolution only really benefitted men. With Leto and Ratner involved, it seems that this film will only continue Hefner’s sexist legacy. Maybe they are the perfect people to work on it after all.
Keep a look out for the Hugh Hefner biopic. Let us know if you’re excited for it (or not).
