Hello all this week’s Friday Fantasy adaptation takes a look at another musical, but this time one with an insane critical pedigree, the Pulitzer Prize winning Next to Normal. It’s one of the better musicals of the past 10 years and it’s only a matter of time before someone attempts to turn into a film. So what would that even look like? Let’s take a gander…

Synopsis: Its story concerns a mother who struggles with worsening bipolar disorder, specifically bipolar I disorder with psychotic features, and the effect that her illness has on her family.

Pros: Pulitzer Prize pedigree, an emotional rock based score, one of the best parts for an actress in a musical,  familial drama, serious issues: mental illness, coming of age

Cons: That score ain’t easy to sing, it’s very insular (just about a family and how they interact with each other), contentious Pulitzer win and it didn’t win the Tony, tough sit

Proposed Cast
Gwenyth Paltrow as Diana Goodman
She was the best thing about Glee when she guest starred on that show and she’s certainly got the acting credibility (I’ll forever defend that Oscar!) to pull off a roll like this. Vocally this might be a stretch (whew the high notes) but since this isn’t on stage it won’t be as taxing and easier on her voice.
Alt. Amy Adams

Stephen Moyer as Dan Goodman
I had no idea Moyer could sing until he popped up in the Hollywood Bowl’s production of Chicago and sang his face off as Billy Flyn. This role needs a guy who can play sensitive yet stand up to a strong woman and he has shown that as Bill on True Blood.
Alt. James Marsden

Melissa Benoit as Natalie
I’ve been really impressed with her on Glee and like to see her tackle a role with more neurosis and grit than the wholesome teacher
Alt. Taylor Swift (shocking I know)

Colton Haynes as Gabe
Colton might not have done Josh Groban justice in this snippet but his voice could certainly work for this role and I’d love to see him tackle I’m Alive
Alt. Zac Efron

Darren Criss as Henry
Yes I’m once again going back to the Glee well but Criss seems like the perfect person to play this slightly aloof yet extremely perceptive character.
Alt. Alden Ehrenreich (if he can sing)