Todd Haynes Sets ‘Dry Run’ as Next Film, Eyes Mark Ruffalo to Star in Du Pont Family-Inspired Drama
Zack Sharf
Update (September 24): “Dry Run” is now confirmed to be based on Nathaniel Rich’s New York Times Magazine’s article “The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare.” The movie centers around Robert Bilott, who had been practicing as a corporate defense attorney for eight years when he took on an environmental suit against the chemical company DuPont. The suit would turn into a battle exposing a decades-long history of chemical pollution.
Earlier: Todd Haynes is set to return behind the camera as director of Participant Media’s “Dry Run.” The movie marks the rare directorial effort from Haynes that he hasn’t developed himself. “Dry Run” is written by Matthew Carnahan, best known for creating television series such as “Dirt” and “House of Lies.” Mark Ruffalo is attached as producer and is considering starring in the drama, Variety reports.
Plot specifics about “Dry Run” are remaining under wraps for now, although the movie is described as being loosely based on the Du Pont family. The Du Ponts are one of the most famous and richest families in America, and their history dates back to the late 18th century when E.I. du Pont came to America and made a fortune as a gunpowder manufacturer. It’s unclear at this time whether or not “Dry Run” is a period piece focusing on an E.I. du Pont-inspired character.
If the Du Pont family name sounds familiar, it’s probably because one of the most famous members is John E. du Pont, the wrestling enthusiast who became involved with USA Wrestling and murdered Olympic gold medalist David Schultz. The story was the basis for Bennett Miller’s “Foxcatcher,” starring Steve Carell in an Oscar-nominated performance as John E. du Pont.
Haynes’ “Dry Run” will be his first feature directorial effort since “Wonderstruck” last fall. The Amazon drama enjoyed success at Cannes and the New York Film Festival but failed to register at the box office or in the 2017-18 awards race. Hayes’ other recent directorial efforts include “I’m Not There” and “Carol.” The filmmaker is also attached to a Velvet Underground documentary, which was announced last summer.
IndieWire has reached out to Participant Media for further comment.
