First announced last summer and followed with character designs and a teaser trailer (see below) dropping at Comic-Con, it looks like things are moving full steam ahead on the WETA produced live action/animatronic adaptation of the children’s classic “The Wind In The Willows.” And they’ve got a big name to lead the cast.
“The Office” and “Extras” star Ricky Gervais has come aboard, voicing the lead character of Mole. Written by Bill Marsilii (“Deja Vu“), “the animals join forces to save their land from a sinister plot that threatens to destroy the uneasy truce between the peaceful animals of the Willows and what remains of Mankind. Story begins when Mole ventures out of his lonely home for the first time and finds a world of new friendships, wonders and adventure waiting for him in the land of the Willows.”
The beloved tale has already been adapted multiple times for the big screen and television, though this undertaking should be the most notable and likely biggest production yet. The project is set to be directed by Ray Griggs, a curious choice, given his resumé is only really made up of the documentary “I Want Your Money” and the superhero spoof film “Super Capers.” This will definitely be his most elaborate, high profile undertaking to date though with the skilled WETA team behind him, he should have all the pieces in place to deliver.
More casting is expected soon and the film is being prepped to hit theaters in 2012.