The film, described as a romantic drama delving into themes of love and trauma, is slated for production in spring 2027, with filming locations spanning both the U.K. and the U.S. "Miss You Forever, Zara Drake" centers on its titular character, Zara Drake, a woman experiencing the zenith of her public adoration and notoriety. However, a year after she falls for Isaac Owens, the frontman of a band on the cusp of fading from the spotlight, Zara mysteriously vanishes.
The narrative promises to explore the intricate dynamics of a love fueled by deep-seated generational trauma and the often-hollow pursuit of success. Set against a timeless backdrop, oscillating between the vibrant energy of New York City and the serene, tree-lined streets of England, the story aims to weave in the rich iconography and heritage of the 1990s fashion scene, as two lost souls strive to outrun their past traumas.
Lucas Jones, who not only directs and co-stars but also penned the screenplay for "Miss You Forever, Zara Drake," brings a diverse creative background to the project. Known for his acting work in titles like "Break Clause," "Get Millie Black," and "We Work for the Dead," Jones is also an accomplished London-based poet. His published collection, "I Still Believe in Miracles: Poems to Find Meaning in Difficult Times," released earlier this year, often tackles themes of masculinity, love, grief, and connection—elements that could strongly resonate within his directorial debut. Jones previously fronted the band The Rose Affair, adding another layer to his artistic repertoire.
For Hannah Dodd, this role signifies a significant step in her burgeoning career. While "Bridgerton" brought her widespread recognition after she joined the third season as the quiet and introspective Francesca, replacing Ruby Stokes, Dodd has steadily built an impressive resume. Her previous credits include appearances in Netflix's "Enola Holmes 2" and the miniseries "Anatomy of a Scandal," where she portrayed a younger version of Sienna Miller’s character. She also featured in Hulu’s "Find Me in Paris," "Harlots," and even briefly as the illusionary adult form of Sprite in Chloe Zhao’s Marvel epic "Eternals." Her performance as Francesca in "Bridgerton" Season 3, particularly in scenes exploring the character's journey of self-discovery, has further cemented her status as a rising star, making her first lead film role a highly anticipated event.
Behind the scenes, Jones is producing the film alongside Eli Banfield for Maryland Films, with Richard Holmes serving as executive producer. The creative team also includes cinematographer Brendan Harvey, composers Sindri Már Sigfússon and Kjartan Holm, and original music contributions from Ava Lily. Casting is being handled by Des Hamilton, with additional casting by Lauren Bayly. The combination of established talent and a compelling narrative promises an intriguing entry into the romantic drama genre.
