Richard Linklater Says ‘Merrily We Roll Along’ Starts Filming Again in a ‘Few Months’ and Gives ‘Progress Report’ on 20-Year Production: ‘See You in 2040’

Richard Linklater's update on "Merrily We Roll Along" has generated significant buzz in the music and film industries. The project, which has been in production for 20 years, is an adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's beloved musical. Linklater is known for his unique approach to filmmaking, as seen in "Boyhood," which was shot over 12 years. This time, he's taking an even longer view, jokingly saying "see you in 2040." The fact that filming will resume in a few months suggests that Linklater is committed to completing the project, despite the unconventional timeline.

The musical, which follows the complex and often fraught relationship between two songwriting friends, features a talented cast, including Ciarán Hinds and Beanie Feldstein. Sondheim's music is a significant part of the appeal, with classics like "Not While I'm Around" and "The Sadder But Wiser Girl." Linklater's take on the material is highly anticipated, given his track record of bringing complex, nuanced stories to life on screen. The long production period has only added to the intrigue, with fans and critics eager to see how Linklater will ultimately interpret the musical.

As the project nears its next phase, music fans and film enthusiasts will be watching closely for any updates on the production. With Linklater's reputation for innovative storytelling and Sondheim's iconic music, "Merrily We Roll Along" has the potential to be a game-changer in the world of musical cinema. Keep an eye on this one – it may be a while before we see the finished product, but the wait will likely be worth it.

Originally reported by variety.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.