Still deep in the memory of many, the Boston Marathon bombing was a tragic and horrific event. Today we’ve received news that Lionsgate are set to adapt Jeff Bauman’s ‘Stronger‘, the true story of the Boston Marathon bombing survivor Bauman, who lost both his legs in the attack.
Bauman co-wrote the book with Bret Witter and it tells the story of the aftermath of the 2013 bombing, where Bauman was waiting and cheering for his girlfriend at the finish line. When he awoke the next day after being in surgery, he first realised he couldn’t speak but upon asking for a pen and paper, wrote down the words: “Saw the guy. Looked right at me.”
Those chilling words set off the manhunt and everything that followed. These memoirs follows his life as he attempts to walk again and face a life he never expected, but with sheer determination and refreshed ambition. The title STRONGER is taken from Bauman’s own words, saying:
“I saw the bomber. He took my legs, but he didn’t break me. He only made me stronger.”
John Pollono is working on the adaption to screenplay for STRONGER and it’ll be his first feature. I’d like to think it’ll be a few years before we see the final film but I guess the concern will be whether this is far too soon after the events, and whether it’s brought to us in both an ethical and humane way. Three people were killed on that day and nearly 300 injured, it’s sure to be very clear in the mind still but let’s hope this film does justice to the reality.
Source: Variety
