Variety is reporting that Martin Scorsese is in talks with GK Films to direct an adaptation of Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret. The award winning children’s book is set in Paris in the 1930s and centers around the titular character.
Orphan, clock keeper, and thief, Hugo lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where his survival depends on secrets and anonymity. But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric, bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth in the station, Hugo’s undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A cryptic drawing, a treasured notebook, a stolen key, a mechanical man, and a hidden message from Hugo’s dead father form the backbone of this intricate, tender, and spellbinding mystery.
Chris Wedge (of Ice Age) was previously attached to the film as
director, but now it looks likely to be Scorsese’s next. Quite a change in direction from Shutter Island!
The film’s script was written by a former collaborator of Scorsese’s- John Logan, the man behind The Aviator. Produced by GK Films and Scorsese as a live-action feature, they’re in talks with Sony and Paramount for distribution and eying a June 1st start date. Shooting will take place in London if all goes well.
Quite excited to see what the man can do with a film geared towards younger audiences. Check the book’s official site for more info on it.
Wonder if Scorsese can get in touch with his inner child on our boards.