All About Musicals

Did you know that the latest psychological drama/thriller film, “Bug,” — which opened in theaters today (Friday, May 25) — is the film version of an acclaimed Off-Broadway play?

Tracy Letts wrote both the play and the screenplay, with William Friedkin doing the directing duties. The film version stars Ashley Judd (Agnes), Harry Connick, Jr. (Jerry Goss), Brian F. O’Byrne (Dr. Sweet), Lynn Collins (R.C.), and one of the original Off-Broadway stars, Michael Shannon (Peter).

Each of these stars has had some experience with stage acting: Ashley Judd was in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Harry Connick Jr. was in The Pajama Game, Brian F. O’Byrne was in Doubt, and Lynn Collins was in As You Like It.

The play’s original star, Michael Shannon, won an Obie Award for his portrayal of the military veteran who spirals into paranoia… or does he? With talent like this having played on stage, he’s bound to be great on film, too!

The play premiered in 2000 in Washington, D.C., and went to Barrow Street Theatre Off-Broadway in February of 2004, running through January 2005. Just about 2 years later it’s made into a movie– not too shabby!

Visit the official film site at bugthemovie.com.

Technorati Tags: Bug, Tracy Letts, William Friedkin, Ashley Judd, Harry Connick, Jr., Michael Shannon, Brian F. O’Byrne, Lynn Collins, Off-Broadway, Theatre