Author John Gorman
With so much interest in Benny's future casting for the film version of "Shades of Luz" it makes sense that there would have to be some speculation for the female lead. John Gorman, author of the book, has decided not to go into details about who he would consider at the moment.
In the book, Luz is from Mexico. She is feisty, uber-ambitious and thoroughly lovable. Her repartee with Benny is delightful and highly engaging. Much of their dialogue is witty. Benny is the classic rags to riches story. Almost. And Luz is so motivational, she is his personal spitfire. She is mucho energetic and when she keeps boomeranging back into Benny's life you just want to see everything work out for both of them. But, of course, there are so many twists and turns along the way.
"I don't want to tip my hand by saying who I think will be good for the role of Luz right now because the fact is I want to take all the time I need," said John Gorman. "Come on now, it's the title role. I want to get it right."
Gorman says that he plans to stay as close to the novel as possible. He is aware of all the problems that can come about when transposing a film. "Chuck Palahniuk tried to stay involved with 'Fight Club' E.L Doctorow has tried, mostly unsuccessfully to mend his scripts back into novel form, but I will have an active role. I've always thought of my book as having a more laid back approach to the raw energy of 'Fight Club', but cut from very much the same ilk."
Chuck Palahniuk was not available to comment on Gorman's comparison to his novel-turned movie.
"I'm excited about the whole concept of reshaping works. Taking a book and turning it into film is it's own art form" John said. "Over the years there has also been a lot of films that have come from short stories. I have a number of short stories too that would make great films. Right now though I want to keep my eyes on the prize 'Shades of Luz' has huge potential. I truly believe it can be a money-maker. But, that's not why I'm behind it. I am very much passionate about it. I think it's a great story, one that can transform peoples' lives.
Karen Heuler, author of "Soft Room" echoes a similar point about John's book. Karen says "This wonderfully odd story introduces us to a marvelously inventive universe with tough guys, loony broads, jazz-playing monkeys and surprises that can change lives."
John is active on his book tour. Next stop he will be at the Behind the Book Benefit in Soho where will a guest along with National Book Award Finalists Colum McCann and Rita Williams Garcia.
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