Shailene Woodley is taking us on a groovy trip back to the ’60s! That’s right — the 32-year-old actress is about to step into the boots (and probably a lot of tie-dye) of rock legend Janis Joplin. Not only is she acting in this biopic, but she’s also producing it, because who says you can’t multitask while wearing bell-bottoms?
This cinematic masterpiece is scheduled to film over 30 days, which is basically a coffee break in Hollywood time, and they’re set to spend a cool $10 million in “qualified expenditures.” I’m not entirely sure what qualifies as an expenditure, but I assume it involves a lot of tambourines and vintage microphones. And because California is still living its best life from the Summer of Love, the state is tossing in $2.5 million through the California Film Commission. Far out!
“California meant so much to Janis Joplin,” Shailene declared in a statement that was probably written while sipping kombucha in a meadow somewhere. “From the stoops of San Francisco to the wooden walls of Sunset Sound, the state became the stage upon which she explored not just the world of music, but the world of her vibrant humanity.” Vibrant humanity? That’s code for a whole lot of guitar solos and soul-wrenching vocals, people.
But wait, there’s more! The California Film Commission is handing out cash like it’s Oprah on a holiday special. A grand total of $39.6 million is being set aside for 18 films, including Shailene’s psychedelic Janis Joplin tribute. And in case you thought Hollywood wasn’t nostalgic enough, there’s $3.3 million going to Community — The Movie. Yep, they’re bringing the beloved sitcom back, because why not? And let’s not forget Disney’s mysterious new project, Lullaby, which is getting a lull-you-to-sleep $3.5 million.
Get ready, people. Shailene Woodley’s about to channel her inner Janis, and the world will never be the same. Time to break out the flower crowns and start practicing those raspy vocals! Peace, love, and rock ‘n’ roll.
