Lena Dunham to direct medieval adventure film in the UK

Lena Dunham is preparing to direct a film adaptation of Karen Cushman’s medieval novel Catherine, Called Birdy, in the UK. 

Dunham has also written the screenplay for the feature, which is from Working Title Films. Catherine, Called Birdy, is Karen Cushman’s first children’s novel, published in 1994.

The book is set in 13th century England and is written in journal form through the eyes of a 14-year-old girl, the daughter of an English country knight.

As with all UK-based projects currently readying to film, shoot dates are subject to change as the exemption from quarantine for incoming international talent has now been lifted. 

Working Title Films is as busy ever with an active development slate. Casting was announced recently on its feature adaptation of Matilda, set to star Alisha Weir, Emma Thompson and Lashana Lynch.

Also in the pipeline is The Swimmers, a feature based on the true story of young Olympic swimmer Yusra Mardini who fled Syria with her sister in 2015.

Image: Jojo Whilden - © HBO.