Fresh off the acclaim of The Smashing Machine at the Venice Film Festival, Benny Safdie and Dwayne Johnson are wasting no time before jumping into their next collaboration. The duo is set to bring Daniel Pinkwater’s beloved novel Lizard Music to life on the big screen. Safdie will adapt and direct, while Johnson takes on the eccentric role of “Chicken Man,” a character unlike anything he has portrayed before.
This announcement has already created a stir in both Hollywood and among fans, with many excited to see Johnson step away from his usual action-hero roles and into something more whimsical and mysterious. With Safdie at the creative helm and Johnson’s undeniable star power, Lizard Music is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing projects on the horizon.
The Success of The Smashing Machine
Before diving into Lizard Music, it’s important to note the momentum this creative pairing already has. The Smashing Machine, Safdie’s latest directorial effort starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, made waves at Venice, receiving a long-standing ovation and earning Safdie the Silver Lion award. Critics praised Johnson’s performance, highlighting his depth, emotional range, and commanding screen presence—qualities that elevated him far beyond his reputation as just an action star.
The overwhelming reception of The Smashing Machine sets the stage perfectly for their next project. Johnson’s chemistry with Safdie as a storyteller seems to have unlocked new creative possibilities, and Lizard Music looks to continue that trajectory.
What Is Lizard Music About?
Based on Daniel Pinkwater’s classic children’s novel, Lizard Music is a story that blends mystery, fantasy, and heartwarming adventure. The plot begins when a young boy, left alone one evening, stumbles across a bizarre late-night television broadcast featuring lizards performing otherworldly music.
This surreal discovery opens a doorway into a world he never imagined. His search for answers leads him to the eccentric Chicken Man, played by Dwayne Johnson, and Chicken Man’s loyal companion—an elderly chicken named Claudia. Together, this unlikely trio embarks on a magical journey that transforms from a simple quest into an exploration of invisible worlds, hidden societies, and the deep bonds that connect lost souls.
This narrative feels worlds apart from Johnson’s usual roles in action-packed blockbusters like Fast & Furious or Jumanji. It’s a chance for him to explore vulnerability, humor, and imagination while bringing a beloved literary character to life.
Dwayne Johnson as the Chicken Man
The casting of Dwayne Johnson as the Chicken Man is both surprising and inspired. The character is eccentric, mysterious, and slightly offbeat—a perfect opportunity for Johnson to show audiences a completely different side of himself. Known for his larger-than-life presence, Johnson’s challenge will be in channeling that charisma into a quirky, unpredictable role.
Longtime fans of Johnson know this isn’t his first transformation. From his wrestling days as “The Rock” to his early film roles like The Mummy Returns, he has continually reinvented himself. Over the years, he has proven his versatility with comedies (Central Intelligence), family films (The Game Plan), and action spectacles (Black Adam). With The Smashing Machine earning him critical respect, Lizard Music could cement his reputation as a true character actor capable of tackling even the most unconventional roles.
Benny Safdie’s Bold Vision
Benny Safdie has made a name for himself with his fearless approach to filmmaking. Known for his collaboration with his brother Josh Safdie on films like Good Time and Uncut Gems, he has built a reputation for gritty, immersive stories. But Lizard Music marks a fascinating departure—a step into surreal fantasy with emotional undercurrents.
Adapting Pinkwater’s novel requires balancing whimsical elements with deeper human themes of loneliness, imagination, and connection. If anyone can achieve this delicate balance, it’s Safdie. His ability to draw raw, authentic performances from actors ensures that Johnson’s Chicken Man will be more than just a quirky character—it will be layered, heartfelt, and memorable.
Why This Collaboration Matters
The partnership between Safdie and Johnson is already proving to be transformative for both. For Johnson, it’s a chance to expand his range beyond blockbusters and redefine his career trajectory. For Safdie, it’s an opportunity to work with one of the biggest stars in the world while bringing bold, unconventional stories to mainstream audiences.
Their collaboration also signals a broader shift in Hollywood, where unexpected creative partnerships are breathing new life into the industry. Pairing an indie auteur with a global superstar creates projects that are both commercially viable and artistically daring.
What’s Next for Johnson and Safdie?
Even beyond Lizard Music, Johnson and Safdie are set to continue working together. Following their Venice triumph, Johnson will also star alongside Emily Blunt in a Hawaii-set period crime drama—described as a “Goodfellas-style” tale with a unique cultural backdrop.
These upcoming projects suggest that Johnson is entering a new era of his career, one where he is no longer defined solely by physicality but by the depth and complexity of his performances. Safdie, meanwhile, is expanding his creative horizons, taking risks, and pushing boundaries in ways that excite both critics and audiences alike.
Conclusion
Lizard Music is shaping up to be a magical, thought-provoking adventure brought to life by one of Hollywood’s most unexpected creative duos. With Benny Safdie adapting Daniel Pinkwater’s imaginative story and Dwayne Johnson stepping into the shoes of the whimsical Chicken Man, audiences can expect a film that blends fantasy, heart, and unforgettable characters.
If The Smashing Machine was the project that proved Johnson’s dramatic chops, then Lizard Music could be the one that defines his legacy as a versatile and fearless performer.
As the package prepares to hit the market, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see which studio takes it on—and how quickly production will begin. One thing is certain: this collaboration is far from ordinary, and it may just be one of the most exciting cinematic journeys of the coming years.