The Guncle is being adapted by director Jason Moore for one of his next films. Moore, according to Deadline, will helm Lionsgate’s film adaptation of Steven Rowley’s novel. After their mother’s unexpected death, the protagonist, a reclusive gay guy who was formerly a successful television performer, takes in his little niece and nephew and raises them as his own. After spending time together in his Palm Springs home, the three start to feel better.
Sisters (2015) and Pitch Perfect (2012) are among Moore’s past works. Shotgun Wedding, starring Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel, will premiere on Prime Video under his direction. Moore directed the Broadway production of Avenue Q as well.
Moore gushed, “Steven Rowley’s novel The Guncle won my heart right immediately.” “The comedy comes from its astute examination of the tension between the desire to start a family and the fact that the protagonists lack the necessary life experience to effectively raise children. It’s a pleasure to work with the team at Lionsgate once again to bring this tale to the big screen.” The film’s source novel, released by Putnam in May 2021, serves as the basis for the film. The film’s script will be written by Rowley. Lily and the Octopus, his debut novel, was released in 2016, and Amazon Studios is now adapting it into an animated series.
Also written by him is the novel The Editor, for which 20th Century Fox is now working on a film adaptation. Rowley is not only directing the movie but also serving as an executive producer. Kristin Burr and Rob Weisbach, of Burr! Productions will serve as the film’s executive producers. Burr said, “We’ve been great admirers of Jason’s since Avenue Q, so it’s enormously exciting to actually work with him.” “Jason will capture the spirit and wit of this classic novel well. Jessica Friedman, of Burr! Productions will be working with her team as a co-producer. Scott O’Brien and James Myers, both of Lionsgate, will serve as producers for The Guncle. “Since we bought this book last year, it has been a favourite of readers everywhere, including Jason, who will capture the heart and warmth along with the tremendous laughter that makes this narrative so memorable,” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group President Nathan Kahane. The Guncle has not yet been given a specific release date. Meanwhile, Moore’s past work can be seen in Pitch Perfect, which can be viewed on Peacock.