Trick Candle Productions acquires Scatman John biopic
March 28, 2023
Trick Candle Productions, an international production company specializing in independent feature films, has acquired the rights to the film “Scatman,” the life story of musician/singer John Larkin, “Scatman John.” The movie, chronicling the wild life and positive influence of “Scatman John,” is written by Stephen Basilone and Annie Mebane, (The Goldberg’s, Shrinking). Tom Malloy (“Lansky,” “Ask Me To Dance”), Founder of Trick Candle Productions, and Steve Valentine (“MonsterHigh”, “The Walk”) brokered the deal with Lee Newman, Larkin’s stepson, who handles the estate. The announcement was made jointly today by all three.
Newman commented: “I’ve wanted to tell John’s compelling and moving story for quite some time now. I am thrilled to be partnering with Steve Valentine and Trick Candle Productions to bring this film to life — reminding us that no matter how rough life gets, things can change for the better at any time, at any age, for anybody. Scatman’s motto ‘If the Scatman can do it, so can you’ lives on forever in the hearts of all of us who struggle to achieve the impossible.”
The film will detail John’s struggles with being a lifelong stutterer, bullying, abuse at home, and his battles with drug addiction and alcoholism. However, after meeting the love of his life in rehab, he conquered his addictions and became an overnight Pop Star Sensation as “Scatman John.” The movie will include unparalleled access to the entire Scatman music library as well as private home videos.
“Scatman John” sold millions of CDs, garnered 14 Gold Records and 18 Platinum Records at the age of 53. Today, his videos have reached over 164 million views on YouTube alone. His music crosses age, international and cultural boundaries, with hit songs like “I’m The Scatman” and “Scatman’s World.” His songs are just as relevant today, continuously being sampled by DJs and artists such as “The Black Eyed Peas.”