Marvel and Skins stars join Benedict Cumberbatch's Netflix movie

Photo credit: Dave J Hogan - Getty Images
Photo credit: Dave J Hogan - Getty Images

Stars from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Skins, James Bond, The IT Crowd and the Obi-Wan Kenobi series have all joined Benedict Cumberbatch for a big Netflix project: one of its Roald Dahl adaptations.

The streaming giant gained the rights to the author's catalog in September, and has signed up Dahl fan and eccentric director extraordinaire Wes Anderson to helm The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, both in terms of writing and getting behind the camera.

The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that Ralph Fiennes, Sir Ben Kingsley and Dev Patel have signed up for the project. Meanwhile, Deadline has reported that Richard Ayoade and Rupert Friend are also part of the cast.

Photo credit: Dave J Hogan - Getty Images
Photo credit: Dave J Hogan - Getty Images

It's unknown which of the short Henry Sugar stories will be adapted, but word on the street is that three of them will comprise the film. Production is set to start in London next week.

Netflix is also developing a series based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, as well an adaptation of the Matilda stage musical.

The latter is a collaboration with Sony Pictures, who is releasing it in cinemas this December, and stars Emma Thompson as Miss Trunchbull (iconic), Lashana Lynch as Miss Honey, Stephen Graham as Mr Wormwood and comedian Sindhu Vee as The Librarian.

Cumberbatch and Ayoade recently starred together in The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, which just came out in the UK, and we at Digital Spy really enjoyed it.

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

Related: Dev Patel recalls "brutal" criticism over his appearance while on Skins

Our review reads: "We know that your instant reaction to The Electrical Life of Louis Wain could be that it's just another biopic with Benedict Cumberbatch, especially as he's no stranger to playing real-life roles.

"However, the reality is that it's a singular biopic that charms and entertains you, before breaking your heart and leaving a lasting impression."

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