Jim Broadbent Set To Star in Film Adaptation of THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY
Oscar-winner Jim Broadbent (Harry Potter, Hot Fuzz) is set to star in the feature film adaptation of Rachel Joyce’s novel The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. Hettie Macdonald, who directed BBC and Hulu hit Normal People with Lenny Abrahamson, is set to direct.
Broadbent will take on the role of Harold, an “ordinary man who has passed through life, living on the sidelines, until he goes to post a letter one day…and just keeps walking.”
The character ends up on a journey that takes him on a 450-mile walk across the UK “in the simple belief that his journey will save the life of his old friend Queenie who is dying in a hospice. Step by step, a spark is ignited in Harold’s hibernating soul as he rediscovers the majesty of the world, reflects on his mistakes, and finally gains the strength to face the unspoken grief that has driven him and his wife, Maureen, apart. The walk becomes a pilgrimage that inspires people far and wide but, more importantly, transforms Harold into a man who embraces the value of friendship, humility, self-forgiveness, and kindness.”
This is such an incredibly uplifting and redemptive story and I’m sure it’ll make for a wonderful film. Broadbent is also a fantastic actor and he’s going to be great in the role of Harold!
Macdonald said in a statement:
“Rachel’s beautiful story is made for cinema: a raw and emotional portrait of a man battling long-buried feelings of grief and guilt in a vast landscape. I find Harold’s journey across England and his belief that he can make a difference extraordinarily moving and inspiring. I am enormously excited to be working with Jim Broadbent who I know will use his warmth, range and sensitivity to create an onscreen Harold who will lodge deep in the hearts of everyone who sees it.”
Author and writer Rachel Joyce added:
“This story is a deeply personal one that has been with me for many years, and has resonated with readers, both young and old. Re-imagining it with Hettie has lifted it to a new level and I know she will make a film that will be beautiful, universal and truthful. It was a ‘small’ book that took the world by storm. We want the film to do the same.”
I love stories like this! Stories that bring a little positivity and inspiration into the world.
Source: Deadline