Some very top secret details behind the filming of Emily Bronte’s classic novel Wuthering Heights are finally starting to leak all over the web. The movie, directed by Oscar winner Andrea Arnold (Wasp) is behind the project which is making headlines for casting newcomer James Howson (pictured) as the first black Heathcliff. Hit the jump to read more!
So far all we know about Howson is what the Daily Mail has recently reported: The Leeds-born actor is in his early twenties. As the first black actor to take on the role of Heathcliff, he follows Sir Laurence Olivier’s portrayal from the 1939 version, 1970’s Timothy Dalton taking on the part, and Ralph Fiennes opposite Juliette Binonche in 1992.
Over the years, scholars and academics have speculated over the race of the character, as Bronte has described him as a “dark-skinned gypsy in aspect and a little lascar,” which the Daily Mail tells us is a reference to 19th century sailors from India.
The script is written by Olivia Hetreed (Girl with a Pearl Earrings), and was originally meant for star Natalie Portman (Black Swan) back in 2008, but then was handed down to Abbie Cornish (Bright Star). After that, Gemma Arterton (Prince of Persia) was rumored, but now Kaya Scodelario (pictured) is set to play young Catherine Earnshaw, according to the blog Enchanted Serenity Period Films.
Set for a 2011 release, the unknown Howson has a blank IMDB page, but fans of the legendary book can learn more about his co-stars. The British cast includes Nichola Burley, Oliver Milburn, Steve Evets, Amy Wren, and Paul Hilton. This list remains true to the heart of the story which focuses on the plight of teenage lovers, thus prompting Arnold’s search for virtually unknowns to cast. There were even rumors that insiders roamed the streets of Leeds in search of Heathcliff look-alikes, and held auditions for actors without any professional experience.
As more details for the project are revealed, Movie Buzzers will keep readers up to date. What do you think about this (semi)controversial casting decision? Are you excited to see another adaptation of this classic story?
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