Darren Pierce said: "Is it confirmed anywhere that it is indeed a musical version being made? Everything I've seen just says "film adaptation of the musical" which could mean a straight film."
The musical is fairly true to the source material, so having the songs is kind of the only way for the film to be based on the musical. Without the songs, it would just be an adaptation of the graphic novel.
Genuine question: has there ever been a film based on a stage musical, where the film wasn't a musical?
Darren Pierce said: "Is it confirmed anywhere that it is indeed a musical version being made? Everything I've seen just says "film adaptation of the musical" which could mean a straight film.
If the statement had read: "film adaptation of 'Fun Home'" I would understand your concern. But the statement reads: "film adaptation of the musical" The answer is right there.
What about Sara Ramirez for Big Alison? (Obviously if its not Beth Malone or Jenn Colella who would be my #1 picks). Or she might be a tad young but can Samira Wiley sing?
For Joan: Hayley Kiyoko, Amandla Stenberg, Miley Cyrus or maybe a lesbian youtuber (like Ally Hills, Stevie Boebi, Ambers Closet or Shannon Beveridge)
For Medium Alison: Alyson Stoner (or she could be Joan), Caitlin Kinnunen, Lauren Patten
JBroadway said: "Genuine question: has there ever been a film based on a stage musical, where the film wasn't a musical?"
This doesn't fully answer your question, but there are a number of instances where the source material is re-made on the heels of a successful musical. 1963's TV film of PYGMALION (w/ Julie Harris) and THE BIRDCADE are examples of that. (Though in the case of The Birdcage, Mike Nichols had been initially hired to direct La Cage the musical, so this was finally his chance to take on the material. I'm sure Jerry Herman, Harvey Fierstein, and Allan Carr were somewhat bitter.)
chipsandguacplz said: "Ooo Lauren Patten as Medium Al would be amazinggg."
Lauren Patten was medium Allison when I first saw the show. I didn't like her acting but obviously her singing is beyond amazing. If they stick with Broadway names/cast, they should just get Emily Skegs. She has done a high profile TV role too.
I was reading Fun Home's Wikipedia page and looks like Maggie Gyllenhaal was Big Allison for a reading back in April 2013. Interesting...
Caption: Every so often there was a rare moment of perfect balance when I soared above him.