Hugh Jackman has been cast in an upcoming film adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, Treasure Island. In this new version, Jackman will portray the iconic one-legged pirate and ship’s cook, Long John Silver. What makes this project particularly notable is its director—legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott, renowned for hits like Alien, Gladiator, and more (via Deadline).
The screenplay is being written and executive-produced by Jack Thorne, acclaimed for creating and writing the highly praised series Adolescence. The film’s production is led by Scott and Michael Pruss from Scott Free Productions.
Currently, the film does not have a confirmed studio, as major Hollywood studios are expected to compete for the rights. The project was initially pitched to 20th Century Studios but was declined due to the studio’s focus on its upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean installment. Described as a “brand-new take” on the beloved novel, the movie follows a young boy who discovers a map to a legendary buried treasure. He sets sail on a dangerous sea voyage to claim his fortune and finds himself in a deadly game of wits with the charismatic and treacherous Long John Silver.
Ridley Scott’s recent directorial work includes The Dog Stars, whose trailer was released this week. He has also directed Gladiator 2 and Napoleon. The Treasure Island adaptation will mark the first collaboration between Jackman and Scott.
Since its publication in 1883, Treasure Island has been adapted countless times across film, television, theatre, and video games. The most recent major adaptation was the 2002 animated film Treasure Planet, which took creative liberties with the source material. Additionally, a Treasure Island TV series starring Hayley Atwell is currently in development.
As of now, the release date for the Treasure Island movie has not been announced.
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