The career trajectory of Michael B. Jordan is nothing short of remarkable. From his beginnings as a child actor to stepping behind the camera, Jordan has demonstrated versatility and talent. His directorial debut with “Creed 3” not only solidified his prowess but also shattered expectations. This notable transition culminated in the highest-grossing installment of the “Creed” trilogy, propelling him into the next phase of his career. And, let’s be real, who isn’t curious to see what kind of magic he’ll bring to his next project?
Michael B. Jordan’s next assignment is a formidable one: a remake of “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Interestingly, Jordan was initially slated to star and produce the film, but his successful directorial debut has now added another layer to the challenge—directing this Amazon MGM Studios venture. The film, originally released in 1968 starring Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway, is considered one of the all-time great heists with its combination of romance and intricate plotting. The 1999 remake, featuring Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo, also enjoyed critical and commercial success. Jordan has big shoes to fill, but it will be fascinating to see his take on the classic tale of a billionaire thief locked in a seductive game of cat-and-mouse with an investigator.
“Creed 3” was a labor-intensive project for Jordan, not least because of the physical demands involved. He described it as “the hardest thing” he’s ever done, largely due to the challenges of both acting and directing while sporting a mouthguard. However, the hard work paid off. Advice from industry veterans like Denzel Washington and Bradley Cooper helped guide him, emphasizing the importance of finding a rhythm and pace, and the ability to self-correct performance nuances on set. These lessons undoubtedly contributed to “Creed 3’s” success and shaped his approach to filmmaking.
Jordan’s craftsmanship was evident in every aspect of “Creed 3,” from the orchestrated boxing scenes to the poignant, non-combatant moments that added layers to the characters’ stories. Notably, his focus on Tessa Thompson’s character, Bianca, involved intricate storytelling as she embarks on her own journey in the music industry. Jordan’s deft handling of both action and emotion bodes well for his tackling of “The Thomas Crown Affair,” where he will need to balance intense heist sequences with the subtleties of the romantic interplay.
The anticipations are high. Will Michael B. Jordan’s version of Thomas Crown avoid the pitfalls of an “ugly suit” moment as Brosnan experienced? Will he manage to capture the essence of a sophisticated heist while injecting his unique directorial flair? Furthermore, how will he navigate the intricate relationships that form the backbone of this romantic thriller? With his prior success, it’s safe to expect something extraordinary.
Closing Credits
After making a significant mark with “Creed 3,” Michael B. Jordan’s upcoming project, “The Thomas Crown Affair,” promises to be another feather in his cap. His ambitious undertaking aims to rejuvenate a classic while showcasing his dual capabilities as an actor and director. Though the release date remains under wraps, fans can catch a glimpse of his craftsmanship in “Creed 3” available on Amazon Prime, and revisit both previous versions of “The Thomas Crown Affair” streaming on Tubi. Stay tuned to see how Jordan navigates the stylish world of heists and uninhibited elegance.
