Leslie Odom Jr. Adapts Sammy Davis Jr. Article Into Horror Film

Leslie Odom Jr., a Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist, is set to adapt an article from Rolling Stone into a horror film. The piece, titled “Dance With the Devil,” was penned by Alex Bhattacharji and delves into the intriguing connection between the legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. and Anton LaVey, the founder of the Church of Satan. Odom will also take on a leading role in the film, which is being produced in collaboration with Rolling Stone Films.

The article examines the circumstances that led Davis, a celebrated figure in American entertainment, to engage with one of the most controversial organizations in modern history. It highlights the complex relationship that formed between Davis and LaVey, exploring themes of alienation, acceptance, and the intersection of race, sexuality, and pop culture. Bhattacharji describes the narrative as “a sensitive story about a profoundly alienated Davis,” emphasizing its exploration of timely social issues.

Odom’s involvement in this project follows his notable performances in the acclaimed musical Hamilton. He reprised his role as Aaron Burr on November 26, 2023, marking a significant return that resulted in a remarkable 76% increase in weekly box office grosses. This resurgence contributed to Hamilton achieving its highest gross in ten years, a testament to Odom’s enduring appeal.

In addition to his stage success, Odom’s film career includes a standout performance as Sam Cooke in the 2020 Amazon film adaptation of One Night in Miami…, directed by Regina King. His portrayal earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, along with a nomination for Best Song for “Speak Now.” Odom has also appeared in other acclaimed productions, including Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, The Many Saints of Newark, and The Exorcist: Believer.

As Odom embarks on this new cinematic journey, the combination of his artistic talents and the compelling narrative of Davis’s life promises to create a thought-provoking horror film that resonates with audiences. The adaptation of Bhattacharji’s article marks a significant milestone in Odom’s career, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

The film’s development is still in its early stages, but Odom’s recent successes and the intriguing subject matter are likely to garner attention as the project unfolds. With a rich history of tackling complex themes in his work, Odom is poised to bring a unique perspective to this adaptation, solidifying his place in both the music and film industries.