Michael Fassbender Developing A Movie On The Legendary Celtic Warrior Chuchulainn

Over the last twelve months, Michael Fassbender has had a string of outstanding performances in Cary Fukunaga’s ’Jane Eyre,’ Matthew Vaughn’s ‘X-Men: First Class,’ David Cronenberg’s ‘A Dangerous Method,’ Steve McQueen’s ‘Shame,’ and Steven Soderberg’s ‘Haywire.’ Thankfully for us movie lovers Fassbender’s upcoming slate is looking equally impressive, with his upcoming role in Ridley Scott’s sci-fi/action flick ‘Prometheus’ this summer. Re-teaming with his ‘Shame’ and ‘Hunger’ director Steve McQueen on the adaptation of Solomon Northrup’s autobiography ‘12 Years A Slave.’ A possible lead role in the Ridley Scott directed/Cormac McCarthy scripted thriller ‘The Counselor.’ Then finally reprising his role as Magneto in Matthew Vaughn’s sequel to ‘X-Men: First Class.’

Another project can now be added to Michael Fassbender’s exciting schedule, as Variety report that Fassbender has teamed up with screenwriter Ronan Bennett (Public Enemies) to develop a movie about the legendary Celtic warrior Cu Chulainn, with Fassbender set to play the leading role. The legendary tales of Chulainn date back to roughly the 7th century and were collected in Ireland’s “The Ulster Cycle” in the 8th century, as well as in Scottish and Manx folklore. Set in the northern part of Ireland, the saga relates the story of the Ulaid tribe headed by King Conchobar, and particularly its conflict with the rival Connachta tribe led by Queen Mebh. The most prominent figure in the legends is Conchobar’s nephew Cuchulain, who has semi-divine ancestry and superhuman fighting skills. In the most famous story, known as the Cattle Raid of Cooley, he is the only man capable of resisting the vast army sent by Medb to steal Conchobar’s prize white bull. Chuchulainn is often compared to the Greek god Achilles in that both were fierce warriors who died young.

For me, Michael Fassbender has been by far and away the stand out actor of the last twelve months. With a number of enticing projects in the pipeline, it looks like more great things are ahead for Fassbender. I’m especially interested in this Chulainn project, as it’s something Fassbender is getting off the ground himself. As this film is still in the development stage I wouldn’t expect to see it on the big screen for a while. There’s currently no word on whether Fassbender or Bennett have a particular director in mind for this project. Hopefully we hear more news regarding this project soon. Expect news related to Fassbender’s involvement in Ridley Scott’s ‘The Counselor’ shortly, as it reportedly starts filming in May.