Oscar-nominated filmmaker Phil Johnston has taken on the task of adapting Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s novel, “The Twits,” into an animated feature for Netflix. The book, which has been translated into 41 languages and sold 16 million copies worldwide, will finally come to life on screen in 2025.
The film, co-written Johnston and Meg Favreau, will be the first screen adaptation of the classic story. It will be animated Jellyfish Pictures, a Brixton-based studio known for their work on “The Boss Baby” and “The Bad Guys.” The story follows the misadventures of Mr. and Mrs. Twit, two despicable characters who own the most disgusting amusement park in the world, Twitlandia. When the Twits rise to power in their town, it is up to two brave orphans and a family of magical animals to outwit them and save the city.
Described as a “hysterically funny, wild ride of a film,” “The Twits” is not only an entertaining story but also a reflection of the ongoing battle between cruelty and empathy. Johnston, who has always been fascinated reprehensible characters, expressed his love for the Twits and their terrible tricks. He believes the movie serves as a reminder that individuals like the Twits, who embody anger and vengeance, should not be allowed to triumph in the real world.
Co-directed Katie Shanahan and Todd Demong, the film will be produced Johnston and Maggie Malone, with Daisy West as the co-producer. Netflix has also announced that “The Twits” will be the first of many Dahl adaptations coming to the streaming platform, including Wes Anderson’s “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” and an animated version of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
This project is part of Netflix’s acquisition of the Roald Dahl Story Company in September 2021, signaling a commitment to bringing Dahl’s magical and imaginative worlds to a new generation of viewers.
Sources:
– The source article.
