Harry Potter Producer and Jack Whitehall Collaborate with Kirk Jones on Film Adaptation of Beloved British Children’s Classic ‘Mr. Benn’
The much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved children’s series Mr Benn has gained new momentum with the recent appointment of BAFTA nominee Kirk Jones as writer-director, known for his work on I Swear.
Producers of the project include Branwen Prestwood Smith from The Mauritanian and Mike Prestwood Smith of 48 Films, as well as David Barron from the Harry Potter franchise representing BeaglePug Ltd. Comedian and actor Jack Whitehall, known for Bad Education, is also involved through Jackpot Productions, alongside Jones, who will work with One Story High.
Currently in development, the live-action adaptation is set to begin casting for the lead role of Mr Benn and supporting characters later this year, with production anticipated to start next year.
Originally created by David McKee and first aired by the BBC in 1971, the animated series follows the adventures of Mr Benn, an ordinary man who embarks on extraordinary journeys every time he visits a magical costume shop. Each adventure begins when Benn dons a new outfit from the shopkeeper, allowing him to step through a magic door into a world that aligns with his new persona. Despite the production of only 13 episodes, the series garnered a strong following and remains a cherished classic.
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In 1999, a previous attempt to create a film adaptation was reported, with director Jevon O’Neill’s Erinfilm acquiring the rights from McKee. At that time, John Hannah was set to play Mr Benn, with Ben Kingsley as the shopkeeper, but the project ultimately did not materialize.
Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the character and the project, stating, “I adored Mr Benn as a child and immediately saw the importance of introducing him to a new generation, in a live-action adventure. Mr Benn finds a unique way to travel through time and space, visiting historical and futuristic worlds to solve apparently monumental problems, with kindness, compassion and common sense. Following on from I Swear, I am keen to work on a project that is humorous and entertaining, whilst at the same time, in a world full of distractions, help focus on what is important. If all goes to plan, Mr Benn might even save the world.”
The McKee family shared their excitement for the project, stating, “The Mr Benn film project has been close to our hearts for many years; it was something our father would often talk about, he was keen to see it happen. It has picked up momentum over time and the pieces have gradually come together. We’re absolutely thrilled to now have Kirk Jones on board to help guide it in the right direction, and we are really excited about going back to Festive Road, where we grew up.”
