Steve Coogan is set to star in a period drama.
The ‘Alan Partridge’ actor will play the eighteenth century lawyer, James Boswell in a screen adaptation of Patrick Edgeworth’s play, ‘Boswell For The Defence’, who is also responsible for re-writing the script to make it suitable for the cinema.
‘Buffalo Soldiers’ director, Gregor Jordan in on board to direct the period film, which will focus on the story of Mary Bryant, a woman who seeks the help of James Boswell (Coogan) as she attempts to escape deportation to Australia.
Talking to The Hollywood Reporter, Highland Film Group’s Arianne Fraser and Delphine Perrier shared: "We fell in love with the script. Gregor’s vision and Coogan’s talent create the complete package, which will be sure to resonate with buyers and appeal to global audiences."
Mark Pennell and Steve Chasman are set to produce the movie and although they emphasized how it will be tough to bring a well-known historical figure to life, but were adamant that Steve was the right actor for the role.
They explained: "Whether it be Lincoln or Thatcher, bringing a historical figure to life is always a challenge, but Steve’s extraordinary ability to blend humor and pathos make him the perfect artist to bring a complex character like Boswell to the screen. We are excited to see him make this role his own."
Filming is scheduled to start in 2015.
Steve Coogan to star in period drama
