Currently in post-production is an upcoming post apocalyptic zombie thriller, titled “The Girl With All Gifts,” which is based on the novel of the same name by M.R. Carey.
Directed by Colm McCarthy, and produced by Camille Gatin and Angus Lamont, the story is set in the near future, when humanity has been all but destroyed by a disease that eradicates free will and turns its victims into flesh-eating “hungries." Only a small group of children seem immune to its effects. At an army base in rural England, this group of unique children are being studied, subjected to cruel experiments by biologist Dr. Caldwell. Despite having been infected with the zombie pathogen that has decimated the world, these children retain normal thoughts and emotions. And while still being subject to the craving for human flesh that marks the disease, these second-generation “hungries” are able to think and feel, making them a vital resource in the search for a cure. The children attend school lessons daily, guarded by the ever watchful Sergeant Parks. But one little girl, named Melanie, stands out from the rest. Melanie is "special." She excels in the classroom, is inquisitive, imaginative and loves her favorite teacher Miss Justineau. When the base falls to the "hungries," Melanie escapes along with Miss Justineau, Sergeant Parks and Dr. Caldwell. Against the backdrop of a blighted Britain, Melanie must discover what she is and ultimately decide both her own future and that of the human race.
Starring as Melanie is newcomer Sennia Nanua. The 12-year-old is joined by Gemma Arterton, Paddy Considine and Glenn Close as Miss Justineau, Sergeant Parks and Dr. Caldwell.
Rounding out the cast are Anamaria Marinca, Fisayo Akinade, Anthony Welsh and Dominique Tipper.
Filmed in West Midlands, Central England, and funded by the BFI Film Fund, Creative England and Altitude Film Entertainment, the film was picked up by Warner Bros. Pictures but only for UK distribution at this time, set for September of this year. No word yet on whether it’ll travel.
Director Colm McCarthy said of Sennia Nanua: “Sennia walked into the room as the last of 500 girls I’d met and just shone. She has taken being the lead actress in a film with Glenn, Gemma and Paddy in her stride and completely inhabits this amazing character. She’s a very special girl.”
At the top of this post is an image from "The Girl With All Gifts." Early key artwork above-right. No trailer yet. Anyone read the novel the film is based on? If so, thoughts on what we can expect?
Sennie Nanua’s only previous credit is a short titled "Beverley" from director Alexander Thomas, which is currently traveling the film festival circuit. Watch a trailer for the short film below:
