Tom Hanks is preparing to take on the role of Abraham Lincoln in his upcoming film 'Lincoln in the Bardo', marking the first time he has played a U.S. president on screen. This adaptation is based on George Saunders' novel of the same name and aims to diverge from traditional portrayals of the Civil War era. The film will uniquely blend live-action scenes with stop-motion animation, promising a fresh visual storytelling approach. The production is scheduled to begin filming in London, indicating a significant international component to the project's execution well beyond typical Hollywood settings.

Hanks, known for his versatile acting skills and dedication to his roles, will not only star as Lincoln but will also play a role in the film's production alongside Gary Goetzman. The involvement of such a well-respected actor is expected to draw considerable attention to the project and could ignite discussions about the representation of historical figures in cinema. Given the complexity of Lincoln's character and the period's tumultuous events, this film provides an opportunity to explore themes of grief, loss, and the human condition in a unique narrative format.

The choice to move away from a conventional depiction of the Civil War aligns with current trends in filmmaking that seek to reinterpret historical narratives through innovative lenses. As audiences increasingly demand diverse and nuanced storytelling, 'Lincoln in the Bardo' may contribute to a broader understanding of history and its representation in popular media, highlighting the adaptability of classic literature in contemporary cinema.