Julie Taymor to Direct New Gloria Steinem Biopic

Julie Taymor, who directed The Lion King on Broadway and films Frida and Across The Universe, will now direct a movie about the life of activist and feminist writer Gloria Steinem.

Sarah Ruhl is writing the script, adapted from Steinem's memoir My Life On The Road. (You can get your copy of My Life On The Road, here).

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"When I read the book, it demanded that it be a film," Taymor told Deadline. "It's so vividly cinematic, with entertaining and complex characters and, like Gloria herself, also witty and provocative. From reluctant spokesperson to a beacon of positive change, hers is a singular journey--an American leader who can speak to us all."

The film is produced by June Pictures and will be a coming-of-age story, telling how Steinem became the feminist icon she is today.

"I can't imagine anyone more magical than Julie Taymor," said Steinem. "So now that we are on this journey together, I hope and believe the result will encourage many more travelers--especially women in all our diverse realities--to tell our own stories."