Jamie Lloyd Dreams Big: ‘Sunset Boulevard’ Director Launches Film Division

Jamie Lloyd, the distinguished director set for the Broadway-bound “Sunset Boulevard” musical featuring Nicole Scherzinger as Norma Desmond, has unveiled plans to branch out into filmmaking. Lloyd’s London-based Jamie Lloyd Company will establish a separate film division and engage new partners from the film industry.

We caught up with Lloyd just before he departed for New York to oversee rehearsals for “Sunset Boulevard,” which begin on Monday. Despite his packed schedule, he expressed concern about a fire at Somerset House, where the Jamie Lloyd Company maintains a small suite of production offices. The fire was contained, but the extent of the damage remains unknown.

Moving into filmmaking seems like a natural progression for the 43-year-old director, known for his innovative takes on classic works in London’s West End, Broadway, Australia, and Argentina.

Lloyd’s recent announcements include a limited Shakespeare season featuring Sigourney Weaver, Tom Hiddleston, and Hayley Atwell. The season will kick off with “The Tempest” and “Much Ado About Nothing” at Theatre Royal Drury Lane this winter. Additionally, he will direct Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter in a Broadway revival of Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” in fall 2025.

Lloyd’s production of “Romeo & Juliet,” starring Tom Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, recently wrapped up a sold-out ten-week run at the Duke of York’s Theatre.

Lloyd’s Jamie Lloyd Company parted ways with a 10-year partnership with Ambassador Theatre Group Productions last January. Nevertheless, the two entities will collaborate on future projects. ATG Productions will remain involved with “Sunset Boulevard” at Broadway’s St. James Theatre, along with Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals.

Lloyd emphasizes that his independence has allowed him greater freedom to explore various directions for JLC. “It’s a new way to dream,” he mentioned, quoting “Sunset Boulevard’s” ‘New Ways To Dream.’

Reflecting on his aspirations in filmmaking, Lloyd reveals that “people have always asked me to do movies for the last 10, 12 years. And there’s a few things that I’ve considered.” Determined to find the right project, he mentions that JLC will soon collaborate with new partners from the film world, although it’s still early.

While Lloyd doesn’t specify the genres he aims to explore, he reveals excitement about working with Sigourney Weaver on “The Tempest,” noting his admiration for Ridley Scott’s “Alien” series.

Asked about directing a potential film version of “Sunset Boulevard,” Lloyd admits he would consider it if asked. However, he remains open to various possibilities for JLC’s initial venture into film.

Lloyd admires the fast-paced environment of theater and its ability to tell different stories. Yet, he acknowledges that filmmaking requires a significant time commitment, stating, “finding a story that I want to live with for two years of my life or more is going to be interesting.”

Reflecting on other theater directors who transitioned to film, Lloyd nods to notable figures such as Laurence Olivier, Sam Mendes, Stephen Daldry, Kenneth Branagh, and Marianne Elliott. Lloyd is excited about joining this esteemed group.

While continuing to push theatrical boundaries, Lloyd maintains that the ethos of JLC is “about doing adventurous productions and seeing how we can move theatre in different directions.”

He emphasizes staying open to new ideas and possibilities, advising actors and collaborators to bring an open mind and heart. Lloyd’s direction in “Sunset Boulevard” includes innovative use of video technology to enhance storytelling.

Reflecting on the logistics of a live-action segment involving Tom Francis in NYC, Lloyd acknowledges the challenges but assures there will be preparations for contingencies.

Lloyd remains committed to international collaborations, expressing excitement about working with theaters and producers worldwide.

He recounts directing Pam Gems’ musical “Piaf” in Buenos Aires with Elena Roger, cherishing the production’s success and collaboration.

Although he has no desire to run his own theater building, Lloyd values working in diverse locations and cities. He recently strengthened JLC by hiring new team members and maintains strong industry relationships.

As he prepares to balance multiple projects, Lloyd looks forward to the opportunities ahead, maintaining his commitment to adventurous and innovative theater productions.

Source: Deadline