"Johnston, Isla is reportedly in negotiations to feature in Baz Luhrmann's upcoming historical epic Jeanne d'Arc"
In an exciting turn of events, 18-year-old British actress Isla Johnston is in early discussions for the lead role of Joan of Arc (Jehanne d'Arc) in Baz Luhrmann's upcoming film at Warner Bros [1][2][3][4]. The project, co-written by Luhrmann and playwright Ava Pickett, is based on Tom Keneally’s 1974 novel Blood Red, Sister Rose, offering a dreamlike exploration of Joan's fractured psyche rather than a conventional biopic [4].
Baz Luhrmann, known for his visually stunning films like Moulin Rouge and Elvis, has been meticulously preparing the project, including script readings for Warner Bros departments and delving into 15th-century culture [1][4]. Production is set to commence later this year on the Gold Coast, Australia, where Luhrmann resides [4]. Catherine Martin, Luhrmann’s longtime producer and costume designer, is also involved [4].
The story will follow the young French peasant girl Joan of Arc, who believed she was divinely guided to lead troops during the Hundred Years’ War, notably in the Siege of Orleans, and helped install Charles VII as king before being captured and executed for heresy in the 1400s [1][3][4]. This adaptation aims to present a unique and psychologically rich interpretation of the story [4].
Isla Johnston, who gained fame by playing the younger version of Anya Taylor-Joy's character in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen’s Gambit" (2020), began her acting career in 2018 with a role in the British crime drama miniseries "Kiri" [5]. If the deal is finalised, this will be Isla Johnston's first leading role in a big-screen production under a reputed production house [6].
No official release date for the film has been announced yet, but this project is considered a significant career opportunity for Johnston and one of Luhrmann’s most ambitious films to date [2][4]. Warner Bros has yet to comment on Isla Johnston's role in "Jehanne d'Arc." [7]
References: 1. The Hollywood Reporter 2. Deadline 3. Variety 4. Indiewire 5. BBC 6. The Guardian 7. Collider
Isla Johnston's potential lead role in Baz Luhrmann's upcoming film based on Tom Keneally’s 1974 novel Blood Red, Sister Rose, is highly anticipated as it marks her first big-screen production with a reputable production house. This project, which explores Joan of Arc's fractured psyche, falls under the genre of entertainment, as does the viewing of movies-and-tv shows featuring Isla Johnston's acting performances.
