The long gestating film adaptation of the 2009 mash-up novel by Seth Grahame-Smith which combined Jane Austen's classic with modern zombie fiction has released its first trailer. The zombie apocalypse flick titled "Pride And Prejudice And Zombies" features Lily James playing the role of Elizabeth Bennet.
The Lionsgate released teaser trailer offers glimpses of James playing Elizabeth Bennet and Sam Riley playing Mr. Darcy. Grahame-Smith was also responsible for the screenplay of another mash-up parody "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter." In his novel, he has taken Austen's words and incorporates it with his own plot twists and ideas and elements, thus taking the lead of the zombie trend.
The movie has been long overdue, being in the works for years. Originally, the film was set to be directed by David O Russel and Natalie Portman was under negotiation for the lead role and for production. In the process, at least half a dozen directors left because of the financial aspects of the movie. Portman is now totally out of the picture, with Burr Steers finally at the helm.
In the promotional trailer, the 26 year old James, who played Disney Princess Cinderella, shows her other acting skills, kicking butts and fighting off the undead with batons and guns. She is flanked by her four sisters with their zombie fighting dexterity. The other Bennet sisters include Bella Heathcote as Jane Bennet, Suki Waterhouse playing Catherine "Kitty" Bennet, Ellie Bamber taking the role of Lydia Bennet, and Millie Brady as Mary Bennet.
Set on the same Austen classic English countryside, "Pride And Prejudice And Zombies" follows Elizabeth and her family in their country estate, but this time it is infested with zombies. Their father serves as their trainer as he teaches them how to defend themselves using martial arts. On the other hand, their mother, Mrs. Bennett, concerns herself with marrying off her daughters.
Other notable cast members include Lena Headey, and Matt Smith who plays as Mr. Collins and Douglas Booth. The film is slated for release on February 5, 2016.
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