Games of Thrones, Cersei Lannister actor, Lena Headey is currently in talks to star in the live-action Banking on Mr. Toad, a film focusing on the Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Toby Kebbell has already signed on the dotted line to play Grahame if Headey reaches an agreement her role is said to be that of Grahame’s wife Elsie. Brian Blessed has also signed up to play Grahame’s best friend Frederick James Furnivall.
Banking on Mr. Toad follows Grahame, Elsie, and their young son Alastair, who struggled with health problems, many of which could not be properly treated at the time. The family’s troubles are eased by the “Wind in the Willows” and its success. The “banking” part of the titles alludes to the fact that Grahame was secretary of the Bank of England in 1908 when he penned his famous novel.
First published in 1908, the children’s novel Wind in the Willows was focused on four anthropomorphised animals in a pastoral version of Edwardian England. The novel is notable for its mixture of mysticism, adventure, morality and camaraderie, and celebrated for its evocation of the nature of the Thames Valley.
Luis Mandoki will take the helm on the film with a screenplay from Timothy Haas who will also produce. Filming on the production is due to start in spring 2018 after many years in limbo. Some time ago Adrian Brody was attached to play the part of Grahame with filming due to take place in Ireland but after the financial crisis that hit the country the project was shelved. Brody is said to have a credit as a producer on the upcoming film.
