According to a new report from Deadline, Tim Burton, fresh off wrapping production on the third season of his hit Netflix series Wednesday, is eyeing a return to features with an intriguing new endeavor. Sources indicate that Burton plans to direct an original screenplay penned by renowned author Kazuo Ishiguro.
While plot specifics are being kept tightly under wraps, insiders suggest the film will be set in post-World War II Japan. This setting marks a departure from Burton's more overtly gothic and fantastical usual fare, yet the potential for Ishiguro's poignant narrative depth combined with Burton's signature visual style could yield something truly compelling.
Ishiguro, celebrated for his acclaimed novels such as Never Let Me Go and Klara and the Sun, is no stranger to screenwriting. He most recently penned the script for the critically lauded film Living, which earned star Bill Nighy an Academy Award nomination. His ability to craft nuanced, emotionally resonant stories makes him an exciting collaborator for Burton.
The project is currently without a distributor, with plans to package it with additional talent once it's further along in development before taking it to market. Beyond Burton and Ishiguro, no other cast or crew members have been attached at this stage.
This partnership also highlights an interesting tangential connection within the industry. Wednesday star Jenna Ortega is set to appear in the feature adaptation of Ishiguro's novel Klara and the Sun, directed by Taika Waititi. This shared professional orbit suggests a mutual respect and appreciation for each other's work among these high-caliber talents.
The prospect of Burton, known for his distinctive aesthetic and exploration of outsiders, directing an original story by Ishiguro, a master of psychological depth and historical context, is sure to capture the attention of film enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. It represents a bold and unexpected alliance that could result in a truly memorable cinematic experience.
