The Tom Hanks-Mr. Rogers movie officially has a name, and it feels so right
There are only two men we can wholeheartedly trust in this world, because these two men have never steered us wrong or led us astray. We’re talking about Tom Hanks and Mr. Rogers, obviously. So it should come as no surprise that Hollywood’s favorite dad is suiting up in one of Mr. Rogers’ iconic red sweaters to portray the long-time children’s host in a new movie. This news feels like a warm hug, or playing with a fluffy puppy, or eating a really great burrito. It’s all sorts of comforting, and completely soothes the soul. Maybe everything won’t be so horrible in the future, because if there’s anyone who can make it all better, it’s Tom Hanks asking, “WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?”
And according to The Wrap, Sony has just revealed the official name of the movie: It’s A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood.
Indeed it is!
According to Variety, who first reported the news, the movie is, “inspired by a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and award-winning journalist Tom Junod. In the story, a cynical journalist begrudgingly accepts an assignment to write a profile piece on the beloved icon and finds his perspective on life transformed.”
If you’re curious, because of course you are, you can read Tom Junod’s story for 1996 story for Esquire right here.
Another major thing about this movie—you know, aside from TOM HANKS—is that a woman named Marielle Heller is set to direct the project. Her prior work includes Diary of a Teenage Girl.
“The script knocked me out with its message of kindness and its exploration of the human spirit,” Heller said in a statement.” As a mother, I am so inspired by the teachings of Fred Rogers and as a human I am in awe of his life’s work. I can’t wait to bring his story to the public and be a part of such a thoughtful, smart group of people who are all coming together to make this film, which truly feels to me like an antidote to our very fractured culture.”
There’s no release date for the movie set yet—but it’s coming. This gives you plenty of time to brush up on your marionette skills.
