John Waters, the iconic director, actor, and author, is set to make a bold return to his filmography through a new and exciting format. In an exclusive reveal by PEOPLE, it has been announced that Waters will narrate a collection of his esteemed screenplays in the upcoming release titled ‘The John Waters Screenplay Collection’, scheduled for publication later this year by Macmillan Audio.
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The audio collection will feature the full scripts of several of Waters’ most beloved films, such as ‘Multiple Maniacs’ (1970), ‘Pink Flamingos’ (1972), ‘Female Trouble’ (1974), ‘Desperate Living’ (1977), ‘Hairspray’ (1988), and even the unproduced film ‘Flamingoes Forever’. What sets this project apart is that Waters himself will lend his voice to every character within the scripts, offering fans a unique and immersive experience into his cinematic world.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, the 79-year-old author expressed his excitement about this unconventional opportunity, stating, “Finally I get the opportunity no other film director would want; to go over the top of ‘line readings’, beyond multiple-motion-picture-disorder into a new dimension of celluloid insanity, and perform every single role in my movies out loud for your twisted enjoyment.” This personal touch from Waters is sure to add a new dimension to the experience of enjoying these cult classic scripts.
Aside from his filmmaking endeavours, Waters has made a name for himself as a prolific author with works such as the memoirs ‘Carsick’ (2014) and ‘Mr. Know-It-All’ (2019), both of which earned him a Grammy nomination for their audiobook narrations. His 2022 novel ‘Liarmouth’ further solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented storyteller across various mediums, showcasing his range and creativity.
The upcoming ‘John Waters Screenplay Collection’ is being touted as a “delightfully trashy, wonderfully frenetic and audaciously edgy” experience by its publisher. Known for pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, Waters invites audiences to immerse themselves in what he describes as either “aural anarchy or cinematic schizophrenia”, leaving the judgement up to the listeners who dare to embark on this unique journey.
This project not only highlights Waters’ dedication to his craft but also offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of literature and film. By narrating his own screenplays, Waters invites fans old and new to rediscover his iconic works in a way that is both intimate and engaging, promising a truly one-of-a-kind experience that is bound to captivate audiences.
Scheduled for release on October 21, ‘The John Waters Screenplay Collection’ is now available for preorder, offering fans the opportunity to delve into the world of this legendary filmmaker in a truly immersive and innovative way. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Waters’ work or a newcomer curious to explore his filmography, this audio collection promises to be a captivating and unforgettable journey through the mind of a true cinematic maverick.