Malkovich signs for title role as Austrian painter in ‘Klimt’

VIENNA — John Malkovich will play the lead in a movie about the life of Austrian artist Gustav Klimt.

The movie, “Klimt,” will depict the life of the famous art nouveau painter whose masterpieces include “The Kiss.” Shooting will begin Jan. 4 in Vienna, the film’s leading producer, epo-film, said Thursday.

Producers from London, Paris and Munich, Germany, are also involved in making the film, which is expected to premiere in May.

“I see this film as a waltz,” screenwriter-director Raoul Ruiz said in the statement.

Malkovich eagerly agreed to play Klimt, said Susanne Biro, an epo-film official. “He was our first choice,” she said. “He physically resembles Klimt, and he is a good friend of Ruiz.”