The first trailer for Mike Newell’s adaptation of Charles Dicken’s classic tale GREAT EXPECTATIONS has arrived, as well as a slew of images from the film. The film stars Jeremy Irvine (WAR HORSE) as Pip, with veteran actors Helena Bonham-Carter as Miss Havisham and Ralph Fiennes as Magwitch. Holliday Grainger takes on the role of Estella, with Jason Flemyng and Robbie Coltrane rounding out the cast.
There have been several adaptations of Dicken’s tale, arguably his most popular story next to A Christmas Carol. A modern day version starring Ethan Hawke and Gwyneth Paltrow was released in 1998 and a mini-series starring Gillian Anderson, Ray Winstone, and Douglas Booth aired in 2011.
Take a look:
Newell’s last cinematic outing was the dud PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME, but that doesn’t discount his skills, seeing as he’s also the director of FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL, DONNIE BRASCO, and HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE, amongst others.
I remember this story fondly, having read it in high school, and am happy to see a cinematic version that retells the story with its classical roots. I was impressed with Irvine in WAR HORSE and having Bonham-Carter and Fiennes onboard is just icing on the cake.
GREAT EXPECTATIONS premieres at TIFF in September with an overseas debut set for November 30, 2012. Expect a US release date to be announced shortly.