This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
James Franco brings Allen Ginsberg's 'Howl' to life
James Franco as Allen Ginsberg
(
Courtesy of Oscilloscope Films
)
Aaron Tveit and James Franco as Peter Orlovsky and Allen Ginsberg.
(
Courtesy of Oscilloscope Films
)
Directors Jeffrey Friedman and Rob Epstein work with James Franco on the set of HOWL.
(
Courtesy of Oscilloscope Films
)
Listen
7:29
James Franco brings Allen Ginsberg's 'Howl' to life
KPCC's Alex Cohen discusses HOWL with filmmakers Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman.
Allen Ginsberg's seminal poem "Howl," is the subject of a new film that stars James Franco as the legendary beat poet.
"Howl" directors Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman say they chose Franco for the role partly because of how he played another real life character: James Dean.
"We looked at all of his work and the film that so impressed us in relationship to this part was what he did with the 'James Dean Story,'" said Epstein. "The fact that he did such a brilliant job of, not only personifying Dean, but really expressing all the depth of his emotional experience in that part."
Plus, Franco has a "personal connection" to the role, according to Epstein. The actor studied literature at UCLA and, later on, in graduate school.
The movie uses animation, along with Franco's voice, to bring the famous poem to life on screen. The directors spent about a year working with Franco on the role, studying Ginsberg's life, as well as his voice and mannerisms.
The film also focuses on the controversy that was stirred up by "Howl." In 1957, the publisher of "Howl", Lawrence Ferlinghetti, was charged with selling obscene material. The ensuing trial would become an important freedom of speech case.
"Howl" opens Friday, Sept. 24 in limited release.
Sponsored message
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
