YOU HAD TO KNOW THIS WAS COMING
Article by Adam Mast
You knew it only had to be a matter of time before CHIPS got the big screen treatment. As a kid, I loved this show! From 1977 to 1983, I watched it religiously. And quite frankly, I wanted to be Ponch at a very early age. Aside from Fonzie, I thought he was the coolest dude on television at the time.
News on this big screen version of the popular t.v. series has been kicking around for years, but not long ago, it was reported that Michael Pena and Dax Shepard had signed on to star as our favorite L.A.-based motorcycle riding police partners.
Earlier this week, Pena sat down with Frosty of Collider.com to talk about what we’re hearing is a star making turn in Marvel’s ANT-MAN. The topic of CHIPS came up and Pena wasn’t shy about sharing a few details.
Not only has CHIPS been greenlit, but it will reportedly be of the R-rated variety. Pena went on to say that he’s been learning how to ride a motorcycle in preparation for the role of Ponch (a part made famous by the great Erik Estrada). He added that he’s been working out so feverishly for the project, that he’s been throwing up as a result of his constant exercising. That’s dedication to your craft.
Finally, Pena also went on to suggest that this film will be a little more serious than the t.v. series and that it will be in the grand tradition of buddy cop movies like LETHAL WEAPON.
I freely admit that I’m greatly looking forward to this movie.
CHIPS will begin shooting soon with an expected 2016 release date.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gk0esAgO-zE
