As the latest Dr Seuss movie hits the big screen, in the form of 'The Lorax' starring Zac Efron and Taylor Swift, its perhaps worth reminding ourselves of a project being readied that will tell the story of Theodor Geisel, the classic children's author and illustrator behind the best loved stories.
It was reported in late 2011, that Hollywood star Johnny Depp would produce a movie about Geisel's life and had the option of starring as the man himself. In a partnership with Universal Pictures, Depp will take creative control of the project and early indications suggest the actor is being urged to take on the lead role, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The actor's chameleonic personality would surely be a perfect fit for the eccentric illustrator, and Depp has shown a desire to make enjoyable family films, such as Alice in Wonderland, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Becoming some of most popular works of all time, the Dr Seuss books have sold over 200 million copies worldwide. Born in 1904, the illustrator spent most of his childhood in Massachusetts before heading to college in Dartmouth. During his early working life, he drew advertising and comic strips, and produced some political cartoons throughout World War II. Universal seem more than happy to work on Dr Seuss adaptations, having produced How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) and The Cat in the Hat (2003), however, having Depp star in a biopic of Geisel would ensure the man behind the works is never forgotten.