Andy Serkis’ ‘Animal Farm’: A Darkly Comic Twist on Orwell’s Classic!

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Andy Serkis is aiming for another story of uprising. Instead of apes, he’s now working with pigs in his future adaptation of George Orwell’s 1945 satirical novel “Animal Farm”. As both the director and potential star of this upcoming “Animal Farm” adaptation, Serkis has finally shed light on his anticipated debut into animation.

According to screenwriter Nicholas Stoller, in an interview with Collider, Andy Serkis’ adaptation of “Animal Farm” is planned to be a humorous but dark take on the original story that remains suitable for families. It will offer a fresh interpretation of the timeless political satire.

Following several decades of attempts by Serkis to bring his unique vision for “Animal Farm” to life, this classic tale is now on its way to becoming a film. Not too long ago, Stoller premiered his latest romantic comedy movie, “You’re Cordially Invited,” on Prime Video. In an interview with Collider, Stoller discussed the next project he has been working on. The script for this new adaptation was penned by Stoller under the guidance of Serkis and Rupert Wyatt, director of “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” Stoller shared details about the storyline that will drive this reimagining of the classic:

[Serkis] had a distinct vision for the film’s atmosphere, and he envisioned a central relationship not present in the book. This dynamic would involve a character resembling Napoleon, a ‘bad pig’, and a younger pig who becomes influenced by the system, eventually rebelling against it. I found this narrative framework intriguing, so we collaborated on its development, and then I proceeded to write the script.

Stoller also described the unique sense of humor in his script for Serkis’ Animal Farm:

The adaptation I made gives it a fresh, modern twist since the original was penned in the ’40s. If I were to keep it as is, it might seem somewhat outdated. However, I didn’t just update it; I infused it with a darkly comedic undertone that wasn’t present in the book. The book does have humor, but it’s also quite serious. I’m genuinely thrilled about sharing this updated version. I believe it will be amazing. It’s been a project he’s been deeply passionate about for a long time.

There’s a New Animal on the Farm

Previously, an animated adaptation of “Animal Farm” was produced during the early years of the Cold War, with financing from the CIA. However, in this new iteration by Serkis, they’re aiming to contribute fresh perspectives to the historical discourse. Stoller shared with Collider that a new, young character has been introduced into the farm as a key figure in the revised narrative.

In this upcoming production, we’ll explore the impact of living under the oppressive rule of Napoleon the pig and how various young animals struggle for truth and freedom by defying his control. The talented cast, including Kieran Culkin, Kathleen Turner, and Serkis, is yet to be fully revealed.

Transforming “The prospect of making ‘Animal Farm’ more family-friendly is a daring endeavor, but could prove beneficial, as even Stoller managed to get his 11-year-old daughter to read – and appreciate – Orwell’s political satire,” into natural and easy to read language might be:

“Making ‘Animal Farm’ more suitable for families is a daring task, but it could bring great rewards, as some kids, like Stoller’s 11-year-old daughter, have found Orwell’s political satire enjoyable. Although no official release date has been announced yet, the animated film is expected to hit theaters in 2025.

Serkis’s Animal Farm is set to be released this year.

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2025-02-06 22:31