In the latest buzz from Hollywood, a compelling pitch has emerged for an untitled crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese, featuring an impressive cast that includes Dwayne Johnson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emily Blunt.

Concept Overview:
Imagine a character reminiscent of Robert De Niro’s Jimmy the Gent from Goodfellas, but reimagined as a ruthless Hawaiian crime boss based on a real-life figure. This film, written by Nick Bilton, explores a tumultuous era in Hawaii, where an aspiring mob leader confronts rival factions for dominance over the organized crime scene. This violent struggle mirrors the gritty landscapes depicted in Scorsese’s acclaimed films like Goodfellas and The Departed.

Set in the 1960s and 70s, the narrative centers on a formidable and charismatic mob boss who rises to establish the most powerful criminal empire in the Hawaiian islands. He engages in a brutal war against mainland corporations and rival syndicates while fiercely defending his ancestral land. This untold true story chronicles a man’s relentless pursuit of power and cultural preservation in the unlikeliest of settings: paradise.

The collaboration would mark another milestone for DiCaprio and Scorsese, who recently worked together on the Oscar-nominated Killers of the Flower Moon, adding to their impressive filmography that includes The Aviator, The Departed, Gangs of New York, and The Wolf of Wall Street. Furthermore, this project reunites Blunt and Johnson, who previously collaborated on Disney’s Jungle Cruise. For Johnson, this film represents a significant opportunity, as he has longstanding connections to Hawaii and has expressed a desire to make a film set there, including concepts surrounding King Kamehameha, who united the islands against outside forces.

Johnson and Blunt are also set to star in Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdi, for A24, expected to release later this year. The duo initially pitched this idea to Scorsese and DiCaprio, who joined forces with Bilton to bring the screenplay to life once the project is greenlit.

Despite their current commitments, the industry has quickly reacted to this pitch, with multiple bids already on the table or in development. This project is shaping up to be a major cinematic event, and updates are eagerly anticipated.