05/02/2014 - Adaptation of JG Ballard’s novel to begin shooting in June

JG Ballard’s 1975 novel High Rise will finally see a screen adaptation. Directed by Ben Wheatley (A Field In England [+see also:
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Written by Amy Jump (Kill List [+see also:
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interview: Ben Wheatley
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film profile] is produced by Jeremy Thomas’ Recorded Picture Company. Thomas produced David Cronenberg’s adaptation of Ballard’s Crash and recently, Jim Jarmusch’s Only Lovers Left Alive [+see also:
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film profile] that starred Hiddleston. The UK’s FilmFour is backing High Rise and HanWay is representing the project at the European Film Market in Berlin.

Wheatley said, “I am very excited to be working with Tom Hiddleston on this project. He is the perfect Laing to me. He brings intelligence, vulnerability and humour to his roles, be they art house or blockbuster that will make Laing come alive. It’s also a great privilege to be working with Ballard’s seminal book.”

Hiddleston said, “I can’t wait to work with Ben. He is one of the most inspired directors in the UK, and he brings with him impeccable taste, courage, wit and singular brilliance - the perfect combination to realize the ambition of J.G. Ballard’s unique vision.”