Joe and Anthony Russo, the brothers and co-directors behind many of Marvel's most well-received offerings in recent years, have much more to offer than just very good superhero movies. In fact, they aren't even the only talented ones in the family. Their sister, Angela Russo-Otstot, is a skilled writer who co-wrote the script of the upcoming Tom Holland-led film Cherry, based on a semi-autobiographical book and set in the trio's home state of Ohio.
The 3 Russo siblings grew up in Ohio, so it only felt natural that they should not only adopt a book set in the land where they grew up but that it should be a family affair. Cherry is the story of a young veteran of the Iraq war whose battle with opioid addiction leads to him becoming a bank robber. Written by the veteran himself, Nico Walker (the titular "Cherry"), the tale utilizes the backdrop of an ongoing opioid crisis that many Ohio natives are unfortunately all too familiar with.
When the Russos were made aware of the book and its connection to their home region, they jumped at the opportunity to adapt it. "We, the three of us, grew up in the same pocket that a majority of the book takes place," said Russo-Otstot in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. "It was almost like all your senses come alive when you're reading something that is that close to you." Her brothers agreed, mentioning how they had seen the ways these particular hard drugs can affect people.
All 3 siblings have families with children, and as a result, the story resonated with them even more. Given that the focus was on a younger generation, the idea of someone with little life experience essentially ruining their life through some simple poor decisions seemed to resonate with them, particularly in the context of caring for young people in their own families. The film, which wrapped shooting well before the COVID-19 pandemic began, tells a story that Joe, Anthony, and Angela have truly connected with, at least in terms of context and themes.
Russo-Otstot is no newbie to the entertainment industry. She's found success in her own right as a writer and producer across several productions, even aside from Cherry. She served in both roles for the 2009 television series V while also moving from producer to story editor for a chunk of episodes with the popular crime drama The Shield starring Michael Chiklis. She also appeared on the screen briefly in several productions run by her brothers, including Captain America: The Winter Soldier and even two episodes of Arrested Development.
Having the 3 of them together on a project so close to their histories could either make for a wonderful heartfelt film or possibly something a little too insular and specific for people out of the loop. Ohio has its own unique communities and quirks after all. But all 3 siblings have impressive track records, enough to have hope that Cherry will prove to be a satisfying piece of cinema.
Cherry will premiere on February 26 on Apple TV Plus.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter