Anna Kendrick Set to Direct Netflix’s Adaptation of “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”

Oscar-nominated actress Anna Kendrick is poised to step back behind the camera as she takes on a new directorial project with Netflix. Following the success of her directorial debut, “Woman of the Hour,” Kendrick will now adapt the critically acclaimed novel “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” written by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This highly anticipated film, which has been the subject of much speculation, is set to delve into the glamorous yet tumultuous life of a Hollywood icon.

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel has been a literary sensation, selling over 24 million copies across 43 languages since its release. The narrative revolves around Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive and enigmatic film star whose storied life includes a series of seven marriages. The story is told through the perspective of a young journalist who is tasked with uncovering the truth behind Hugo’s fame and the secrets that lie within her past.

Kendrick’s involvement in the project was confirmed on 1 June 2023, with news first reported by Deadline. The screenplay has been penned initially by Liz Tigelaar, known for her work on “Little Fires Everywhere,” and has undergone revisions by Francesca Sloane of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” fame. With Kendrick at the helm, fans are eagerly awaiting how she will interpret the intricacies of Reid’s vibrant characters.

Since the announcement, there has been considerable excitement surrounding potential casting decisions. For the role of Evelyn Hugo, various names have emerged as fan favourites, including Ana de Armas, Eiza González, and Salma Hayek. Each of these actresses has expressed admiration for the character, with González previously stating it would be an “honour” to portray the role, while de Armas also indicated a keen interest.

In response to the intense speculation, Jessica Chastain’s name has surfaced for the character of Celia St. James, a figure who serves as a rival and a key figure in Hugo’s life. This buzz intensified following a question posed by Andy Cohen during a January episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” to which Chastain responded with enthusiasm about receiving a script. However, she later clarified her lack of involvement in the project to quell fan excitement.

The production of “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” has been long in the making, with Netflix acquiring the rights to the bestseller back in March 2022. Although progress updates have been infrequent, the announcement of Kendrick as director marks a pivotal moment for the adaptation, promising a fresh interpretation of the extravagant and often heartbreaking saga that Jenkins Reid has crafted.

Kendrick’s debut as a director, “Woman of the Hour,” received positive reviews and holds a remarkable 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting that her vision and execution in storytelling resonate well with audiences. The actress has showcased her versatility in the industry, shifting from acting to directing with considerable success. Currently, she is also involved in other film projects, including “Another Simple Favor” and “Misty Green,” where she stars alongside Chris Rock.

As anticipation builds, the production team has yet to announce a release date for “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” Fans of the book and cinema alike are eager to see how Kendrick transforms the beloved narrative into a cinematic experience, and speculation regarding casting will likely continue until official announcements are made.

In the meantime, both avid readers and film enthusiasts wait with bated breath, hoping that Kendrick can bring the complex story of Evelyn Hugo and her many marriages to life in a way that resonates with the millions who have been captivated by the novel. With the combination of Kendrick’s directorial talent and Reid’s compelling narrative, this adaptation has the potential to become one of Netflix’s standout offerings in the coming years.