Disney just announced casting for major roles in the live-action adaptation of “Artemis Fowl,” which will be directed by Kenneth Branagh and produced by Branagh and Judy Hofflund. The movie is based on young-adult science fiction/fantasy novel series written by Irish author Eoin Colfer which have been read by millions of children throughout the new millennium.
The search for an actor to play Artemis Fowl was extensive, with casting director Lucy Bevan seeing over 1200 candidates for the part. Branagh chose Irish newcomer Ferdia Shaw, who will make his onscreen debut in the title role.
The novels follow a 12-year-old genius named Artemis Fowl. He is descended from a long line of criminal masterminds and finds himself in a battle of strength and cunning against a powerful, hidden race of fairies who may be behind his father’s disappearance.
- Josh Gad (“Murder on the Orient Express,” “Beauty and the Beast”) has signed on for the role of Mulch Diggums, a kleptomaniacal dwarf who works for the fairies—and himself.
- Academy Award winner Judi Dench (“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” “Skyfall”) takes on the role of Commander Root, the steely leader of the fairy police force (LEPrecon).
- Lara McDonnell (“Love, Rosie,” “The Walk Invisible”) has been cast in the role of Captain Holly Short, the elf hero.
- Nonso Anozie (“Cinderella,” “Ender’s Game”) will play Butler, Artemis Fowl’s formidable bodyguard.
The development of an Artemis Fowl movie has a troubled history with the first attempt made back in 2001. Production of this movie ha been wrapped up in the Harvey Weinstein scandal and Disney has removed the Weinstein company from the production.
With a screenplay by award-winning playwright Conor McPherson, “Artemis Fowl” is slated for release in U.S. theaters on August 9, 2019. Production will begin early next year in the U.K.
Have you read the books? If so can you imagine theme making a good movie?