Michael Gracey will direct the Elton John biopic Rocketman for Rocket Pictures. We first reported on the project back in September 2011 when Lee Hall (War Horse, Billy Elliot) signed on to write the screenplay.

Our initial story described the project as a "biographical musical fantasy" that incorporates several elements of Elton John's life, along with several choreographed numbers set to the artist's biggest hits. Here's what executive producer and Rocket Films CEO Steve Hamilton Shaw had to say about Michael Gracey coming on board.

"Michael has an innovative, imaginative and compelling vision for the film. 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."

The new director also released his own statement about joining the project.

"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. 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."

No production schedule was given for Rocketman at this time. Michael Gracey is also attached to direct The Greatest Showman on Earth, a P.T. Barnum biopic with Hugh Jackman set to star, and The Muppet Man, centering on the life of Jim Henson.