Just when you thought the cast of Josh Safdie's Marty Supreme couldn't get any more eclectic, along comes Fran Drescher. Yes, you read that right — The Nanny star, known for her iconic nasally voice and distinct comedic timing, is set to play Timothée Chalamet's mother in this wildly unconventional ping-pong drama. Set in the 1950s, Marty Supreme is shaping up to be a unique ride, blending the absurd with Safdie's signature intense storytelling style.
Produced by A24, Marty Supreme centers on a ping-pong champion loosely based on the life of Marty Reisman, an eccentric real-life champion who dominated the sport in the mid-20th century. The script, penned by Safdie and longtime collaborator Ronald Bronstein, promises a mix of eccentricity, nostalgia, and perhaps a dash of Safdie's gritty realism.
The film's already impressive supporting cast includes Tyler, the Creator, Gwyneth Paltrow, and even magician Penn Jillette. Add to that investor and Shark Tank personality Kevin O'Leary and director Abel Ferrara, and it's clear that Marty Supreme has a roster of talent as varied and unpredictable as Safdie's previous works.
At first glance, a ping-pong drama might seem like an odd pivot for Safdie, best known for tense, character-driven stories like Uncut Gems. However, Safdie has proven time and again that he can take seemingly niche topics and turn them into cinematic gold. Drescher's addition, with her comedic roots and unmistakable voice, hints that this film might have a lighter, quirkier edge than Safdie's typical fare.
With no official release date yet, anticipation is building for how this film will turn out. Will Safdie's magic extend to this quirky sports drama? And how will Drescher's comedic flair blend with Chalamet's intensity?
What do you think of Fran Drescher taking on this role? Do you think Marty Supreme will live up to the hype? Share your thoughts below!