19/03/2010

Director Cary Fukunaga will commence principal photography next week in the UK on Focus Features and BBC Films’ romantic drama Jane Eyre, produced by Ruby Films and based on Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel.

Mia Wasikowska (Alice in Wonderland) and Michael Fassbender (Hunger [+see also:
film review
trailer
interview: Laura Hastings-Smith Rob…
interview: Steve McQueen
film profile]) will star in the lead roles while the supporting cast comprises BAFTA winner Jamie Bell, Oscar winner Judi Dench, Holliday Grainger (Bel Ami), Golden Globe Award winner Sally Hawkins (Happy-Go-Lucky [+see also:
trailer
film profile]), Tamzin Merchant (Pride and Prejudice [+see also:
trailer
film profile]) and Imogen Poots (Solitary Man).

Cinematographer Adriano Goldman reunites with Fukunaga after Sin Nombre, Will Hughes-Jones (Survivors) is the production designer and Oscar winner Michael O’Connor (The Duchess [+see also:
film review
trailer
film profile]) is the costume designer.

The screenplay adaptation is by Moira Buffini, who for Ruby and BBC Films adapted the upcoming Tamara Drewe. Ruby’s Alison Owen (Oscar nominee for Elizabeth) and Paul Trijbits (Fish Tank [+see also:
film review
trailer
interview: Andrea Arnold
film profile]) are producing while Christine Langan is executive producing for BBC Films.

Focus CEO James Schamus said, “Cary is the ideal choice to realize this unforgettable story in its traditional setting, yet with contemporary vitality and spirit. With two of today’s most promising new stars in Mia and Michael, plus an outstanding supporting cast, this will be a Jane Eyre for the ages.”

Langan added, “We’re delighted to bring together two such fresh and impressive talents as director Cary Fukunaga and screenwriter Moira Buffini. Added to the gorgeous cast Cary has assembled, this is exactly the treatment Charlotte Brontë’s evergreen classic Jane Eyre deserves.”

This will be the 22nd film or TV adaptation of the novel.