Actress Jennifer Saunders (Absolutely Fabulous), Laurence Olivier Award-winning actress Hiran Abeysekera (The Life of Pi) and actress Pippa Bennett-Warner (Gangs of London) have joined the cast of the film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s novel The Magic Faraway Tree, which is currently in production.
Based on Blyton's beloved “The Faraway Tree” series, the film follows the Thompson family as they move to the English countryside and discover a magical tree. This imaginary tree transports visitors to faraway lands, setting the stage for a series of fantastical adventures.
Saunders has been cast as the children's grandmother, Abiesekera as the grumpy fairy, and Bennett Warner as Hannah's grandmother's assistant. Newcomers Delilah Bennett Cardy, Billie Gadsdon, and Phoenix LaRoche will play the Thompson children.
These actors join previously announced cast members Andrew Garfield, Claire Foy, Nicola Coughlan, Jess Gunning, Nonso Anozie, Dustin Demery-Jones, Mark Heap, Oliver Criss, Lenny Henry, Simon Russell Beale and Michael Palin.
Principal photography has begun on the film, with filming taking place in southern England and at Shenfield Studios in Reading. The screenplay is by Simon Farnaby (Wonka, Paddington 2), and directed by Ben Gregor (Britannia, Black Ops).
Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group and Ashland Hill Media Finance are handling the project. Producers include Pippa Harris and Nicholas Brown of Neal Street Productions, Danny Perkins of Elysian Film Group and Jane Hawkes. Ashland Hill Media Finance is fully financing the film, while Palisades Park Pictures is handling worldwide sales and CAA Media Finance is handling U.S. rights.
“Just when we thought our cast couldn’t get any more exciting, these incredibly talented actors joined us,” said Harris. “I know they will bring wit, wonder and warmth to their performances and we are thrilled to have them join us on this magical adventure.”
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring together such an outstanding and engaging cast,” added Simon Williams, Managing Partner of Ashland Hill. “We couldn’t be more excited to take audiences of all ages into a world they’ve never seen before, and experience this incredible story come to life.”
