Back in February we told you about the upcoming movie adaptation of On Chesil Beach based on Ian McEwan‘s Brooker Prize nominated 2007 novel. Ahead of it’s principal photography which is set to start in October Number 9 Films, today reveal the eagerly anticipated casting of Billy Howle (The Sense of an Ending, The Seagull) who will play the lead role of Edward Mayhew opposite Saoirse Ronan’s (Brooklyn, Atonement)Florence Ponting.
There is hope Ian McEwan‘s 2007 best selling novel, will have the same impact on the big screen as did his previous novel Atonement. Not just for the movie but for it’s new leading male lead played by Howle like it did then for Saoirse Ronan and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film will be directed by the previously announced Dominic Cooke (The Hollow Crown). Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley of Number 9 Films produce.
Set in England 1962 On Chesil Beach is the precise depiction of two young lovers, to the touching story of how their unexpressed misunderstandings and fears shape the rest of their lives, On Chesil Beach is a tender story which shows how the entire course of a life can be changed – by a gesture not made or a word not spoken.
Director Dominic Cooke said: “I’m very excited about working with Billy on this brilliantly written role. He has the perfect mix of charisma, intelligence and vulnerability for Edward and is a subtle and intelligent actor. The chemistry between him and Saoirse is electric and I can’t wait to start working with them both.”
Elizabeth Karlsen said: “The search for Edward has been long and thorough so it is a relief and a joy to have at last cast someone in this part. Billy has all the qualities of intelligence, youth and sensitivity needed to play opposite Saoirse in this challenging and complex role. He is a very fine actor and we are delighted to have him on board.”
Billy Howle and Saoirse Ronan will be no strangers to each other as the pair also set to star in The Seagull which is based on Anton Chekhov‘s play, which is set for 2017 release.
