Jodie Comer is reportedly in line to star as Miss Honey in a new film adaptation of Matilda: The Musical. The news may come as a surprise to those familiar with Comer’s award-winning performance as the ruthless Villanelle in hit TV series Killing Eve, who is perhaps the direct opposite of the kind-hearted schoolteacher Miss Honey.
The new film, which is backed by Netflix, will use Tim Minchin’s much-loved 2010 musical as its source material, as well as Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book. The musical received a whopping 10 nominations at the 2012 Olivier awards and has attracted international acclaim. Minchin is currently working on a brand new song for the adaptation.
Netflix has recently confirmed that this is just one of many Dahl adaptations that we can look forward to in the coming months, with The BFG and The Twits set to follow soon.
If she secures the role, Comer will join what looks set to be a star-studded cast. Ralph Fiennes, best known for playing Voldemort in the Harry Potter series, has already been cast as the vicious Miss Trunchbull, while Emma Stone is also reportedly in talks to appear in the film.
The Daily Mail reports that 27-year-old Comer is the favourite choice of both Netflix and Working Title to take on one of literature’s most gentle and caring characters. It is undeniable that she is an actor with incredible range. Is this when the world will discover her sweet side?
The adaptation will allegedly be directed by Matthew Warchus, who directed Minchin’s acclaimed musical production, as well as the film Pride (2014).
Netflix’s take on Matilda is expected to make a cinematic debut before being available to stream on the small screen.
Words by Rachel Kevern