Prince music-inspired original film in the works at Universal Pictures

Universal Pictures is working on a musical inspired by songs of legendary artist Prince. They have picked up the rights to a number of classic songs from his catalogue and are developing an original film musical. 

Before you jump the gun, let us tell you that it will not be a Prince biopic like the 1984 film ‘Purple Rain’ but a fictional narrative, according to the Hollywood Reporter. They are reportedly wanting to make an original film that uses his songs innovatively and as signposts. Exactly how ‘Mamma Mia!’ franchise was made inspired by ABBA music. 

The yet-to-be-titled film will be overseen by Mike Knobloch, president of global film music and publishing for Universal Pictures. Universal VP production Sara Scott and creative executive Mika Pryce will oversee the film's development.

Atom Factory’s Troy Carter, the entertainment advisor of Prince’s estate, will executive produce, alongside Jody Gerson, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group, the exclusive worldwide publishing administrator for Prince’s catalogue.

The project follows the death of the legendary artist in 2016 who has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. 

Prince had won eight Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Purple Rain.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.