The book Pride and Prejudice and Zombies became a bit of a hit before it was even published, with people loving it for its name only (when they finally got to see the book, many found it a bit of a one-trick pony, but that’s not so much of a problem for a two-hour film).
Unsurprisingly, Hollywood was quick to jump on the novel and sign up for a screen version. The book itself is about 80% Jane Austen’s original text, but it then adds in some blood-thirsty zombies, courtesy of writer Seth Grahame-Smith. So it’s basically Elizabeth Bennet looking for love and independence, set against the outbreak of a deadly virus that turns people into the killer undead. However she’s rather distracted from trying to kill these fiends (using her impressive martial arts skills) by the arrival of the arrogant Mr. Darcy.
Now Variety reports thatNatalie Portman has signed up to star in the film version, playing the ass-kicking Elizabeth. She’ll also produce the film through her handsomecharlie production company, while director Richard Kelly will also be involved through his Darko Films outfit. Kelly isn’t currently slated to direct the film, just produce.
Natalie seems to be enjoying these riffs on classics, as she’s only recently finished filming Your Highness, an R-rated comedy take on the idea of fairytale fantasy realms.
There’s no news yet, however, on when Pride and Prejudice and Zombies might go into production.