Amazon MGM Studios is currently in production on “Madden,” a film set to chronicle the remarkable life of legendary football coach and broadcaster John Madden, with Nicolas Cage in the lead role. Christian Bale will star alongside him as the iconic owner of the Oakland Raiders, Al Davis.
Directed by David O. Russell (“Silver Linings Playbook,” “American Hustle”), “Madden” will explore the journey of John Madden (1936-2021), a towering figure in the National Football League. Madden transitioned from a successful, decade-long coaching career with the Oakland Raiders, culminating in a Super Bowl XI victory in 1977, to becoming one of the most beloved and recognizable voices in sports broadcasting for three decades. His impact extended into the realm of video games with the creation of the “Madden NFL” franchise, a cultural phenomenon that has introduced the sport to generations.
The studio recently released the first image of Nicolas Cage as John Madden and Christian Bale as Al Davis, offering a glimpse into their transformations for the film. Cage is seen sporting a Raiders jacket and Super Bowl ring, while Bale embodies Davis with slicked-back hair and sunglasses.
Madden’s coaching career with the Raiders was marked by consistent success and a Super Bowl win. Following his departure from coaching due to health concerns in 1978, he embarked on a broadcasting career where his unique and enthusiastic commentary, often aided by the Telestrator and his signature “Boom!”, resonated with millions of viewers. His long partnership with Pat Summerall remains a benchmark in sports broadcasting history. Madden retired from the booth in 2009, having worked for all major American television networks and earning numerous accolades, including 16 Emmy Awards.
His influence expanded even further with the “Madden NFL” video game series, which launched in 1988. The franchise’s immense popularity has not only entertained millions but has also played a significant role in popularizing American football globally.
The film features a strong supporting cast, including John Mulaney as Trip Hawkins, the founder of Electronic Arts; Kathryn Hahn as Virginia Madden, John’s wife; and Sienna Miller as Carol Davis, Al Davis’s wife.
Russell is directing from a screenplay he penned, building upon an earlier version by Cambron Clark. The movie is being produced by Escape Artists’ Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, and Steve Tisch, along with Jonathan Shukat, Russell, Matthew Budman, and Colin Wilson. Executive producers include Michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz-Morini.
An official release date for “Madden” is yet to be announced.
