Fan CastingCriss Oliva: The Voice of a Shattered Soul

In the late 1980s and early '90s, heavy metal was on the rise, and at the heart of it was Criss Oliva—a virtuoso guitarist and co-founder of the legendary band Savatage. "Criss Oliva: The Voice of a Shattered Soul" is a biopic that takes us inside the mind and life of a troubled genius, tracing Criss’s journey from his early days in Tampa, Florida, to becoming one of the most respected guitarists in rock history. The film will explore Oliva’s deep musical bond with his brother Jon, their creation of Savatage, and how their groundbreaking albums like Hall of the Mountain King and Gutter Ballet pushed the boundaries of heavy metal. Through gripping musical sequences, we’ll see Criss’s technical brilliance and his role in pioneering symphonic metal, fusing complex riffs with orchestral arrangements that would influence generations to come. However, Criss’s story is not just one of triumph. The film will delve into his personal demons—the pressure of fame, his internal struggle for self-acceptance, and his relationships within the chaotic rock world. Alongside his brother Jon, Criss's bond with his bandmates and his love for his wife will be at the center of his emotional conflict.