News

Allen Ginsberg Biopic Starts to Howl

Howl, the biopic based on the life of homosexual beat poet Allen Ginsberg, is taking shape, with a slew of actors accepting roles in the film. James Franco will star as Ginsberg. The film will focus on how officials launched an obcenity trial in order to censor Ginsberg's poem, "Howl."

Paul Rudd, David Strathairn, and Mary-Louise Parker are all on board to star as real-life characters. Rudd will portray literary critic and defense witness Luther Nichols, with Strathairn portraying prosecuting attorney Ralph McIntosh. Parker will tackle the role of radio personality and prosecution witness Gail Potter. Alan Alda has been cast as Judge Clayton Horn.

Director Gus Van Sant will executive produce the film.

—The ARTISTdirect Staff
09.16.08