Michael Gracey to Direct Elton John Musical Biopic ROCKETMAN

Michael Gracey to Direct Elton John Musical Biopic ROCKETMAN ROCKETMAN has found its director.

Rocket Pictures, the studio behind the forthcoming Elton John musical biopic, has officially tapped commercial helmer Michael Gracey to take the reins on the film, according to Deadline. Lee Hall, who wrote BILLY ELLIOT, has penned the script.

The film chronicles the acclaimed musician's life story, beginning at five-years old, and working its ways through the years to John's current position as one of the most prominent and successful performers in the world.

"Michael has an innovative, imaginative and compelling vision for the film," Steve Hamilton Shaw, CEO of Rocket Pictures, told the site. "We want to create an experience that surprises and moves audiences and knew immediately that he was the perfect director to take them on this journey."

Gracey, though best known for directing commercials, is also set to direct Hugh Jackman in THE GREATEST SHOWMAN ON EARTH and Disney's THE MUPPET MAN.

"Everyone knows and loves Elton John's music, but the true story of his life is so incredible that it can only be described as a fantasy," said Gracey. "His journey from impossible dreamer to stardom and uncontrollable excess is something only a musical film can capture, and I'm so excited to be the one to tell his story."

For the original report, head on over to Deadline.

In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold over 33 million copies worldwide, and is the best selling single in Billboard history. He has more than 50 Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, 56 Top 40 singles, 16 Top 10, four No. 2 hits, and nine No. 1 hits. He has won six Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Tony Award. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him Number 49 on its list of the 100 greatest artists of all time.