After an intense five-week schedule, independent filming for the Atlas Shrugged movie came to a close on July 20. As previously posted, there has been much anticipation and apprehension over the ambitious project. The Facebook comments following my initial article in this regard were certainly mixed. Hopes are high among the optimists, though many doubt whether a $5 million budget has a chance of capturing the book’s powerful message.
The movie will cover Part I of Ayn Rand’s novel, ending at the run of the John Galt Line, with two more films in the planning stage. Six months of editing now stand between audience members and the final product so plenty of time remains to speculate on the movie’s possible success. The script was reviewed by The Atlas Society’s David Kelley which is a heartening fact in light of concerns over staying true to the essence of Atlas.
Still, many assert that what makes the book great are the speeches given by its larger-than-life characters. It is doubtful than anyone could hope to embody our own idealized conceptions of Dagny, Rearden and Francisco, not to mention Galt, and it is expected that time constraints will cut their intensely moving tirades significantly.
I personally believe the chance at reaching new audiences in a more mainstream format is far more worthwhile a goal than delicately leaving the book untouched to preserve its admirers’ personal impressions. While this may not be a blockbuster in every theater it reaches, few mediums are more accessible to the public than that of film, and releasing it in that format opens the door to countless opportunities.
Aglialoro expects the movie to be ready for release by next March unless it is accepted for Cannes or other major festivals, which would indicate a June release. For more information see the IMDB page and The Atlas Society’s article which includes video of an interview with Aglialoro.
I am one of those who fears that the movie would be a disappointment compared to the book. And you're right that a lot of the monologues will have to be cut out, especially Galt's speech. However, I think they'll be able to keep Francisco's money speech, and Hank Rearden's trial (two of the biggest incidents of the book, IMHO). I hope they'll also be able to keep the tramp's description of the 20th Century Plan.
Also, remember that a lot of the biggest stuff took place inside the characters' minds, which obviously cannot directly translate to the silver screen. It will be interesting to see how they'll translate the spirit of that into the silver screen… the best way would probably be through altering the dialogue to highlight the moments of enlightenment.