Freddie Mercury Biopic Gets Star, Director

It looks like the long-in-the-works Freddie Mercury biopic has finally gained some forward momentum. Deadline is reporting that Ben Whishaw has been cast to play Mercury, and actor/director Dexter Fletcher (Wild Bill, Sunshine on Leith) has been hired to helm the film.

Whishaw has apparently received the official blessing from the surviving members of Queen, lack of which was the reason why Sasha Baron Cohen backed away from taking the role.

The film will focus on Mercury as a member of Queen, starting with the early days of the band and stopping at the triumphant comeback concert at Live Aid in 1985. The band has authorized the use of many of its songs in the film.

Production is slated to begin next year.