By: Eric Eisaenberg

Oscar-winner Marcia Gay Harden and Zac Efron are the latest actors to join the cast of Parkland, the new John F. Kennedy assassination drama that is being produced by Tom Hanks‘ Playtone label and Exclusive Media. They join a building all-star cast that already includes Paul Giamatti, Billy Bob Thornton, and Jacki Weaver. Peter Landesman, who is best known for his work as a journalist and a novelist, will be making his directorial debut with the project, taking us back to that fateful time back in 1963.

Based on the book “Reclaiming History: The Assassination of President John F. Kennedy” by former prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi, the film goes back to the day that JFK was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald and looks at the events that took place in Dallas’ Parkland Hospital following the shooting. The press release announcing the latest round of casting fails to mention what roles Efron and Gay Harden will be playing in the film.

Exclusive Media Co-Chairmen Guy East and Nigel Sinclair said in a joint statement about the casting, “Zac Efron continues to impress us with his recent shift into more dramatic roles which showcase his exceptional acting skills and Marcia Gay Harden is an unparalleled actress who gives tour de force performances in every film she appears. We look forward to seeing their combined talent in Peter Landesman’s powerful and mesmerizing story alongside the excellent cast already attached to this film.” They are currently looking to release the film in honor of the 50th anniversary of the shooting, which will be next year on November 22nd.

Source: Cinema Blend