Millie Bobby Brown, the breakout star of the phenomenal Netflix series “Stranger Things,” is poised to embark on a new creative endeavor that holds personal significance. Drawing inspiration from her own grandmother’s experiences, Brown has crafted a poignant World War II novel titled “Nineteen Steps,” which she now plans to adapt into a feature film for the streaming giant.
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Book Details
Published in September 2023 by William Morrow, “Nineteen Steps” swiftly ascended to the ranks of a New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller. This achievement underscores the resonance of Brown’s storytelling prowess and her ability to captivate readers with a narrative that intertwines historical events with the intimate struggles of everyday life.
At the heart of “Nineteen Steps” lies a harrowing event that left a mark on British history – the Bethnal Green Tube disaster. On March 3, 1943, a tragic crush occurred as civilians sought refuge from an air raid in the Bethnal Green Underground station, resulting in the loss of 173 lives. This catastrophic incident serves as a pivotal point in the novel, shaping the experiences of the protagonist, Nellie Morris.
The story follows the journey of 18-year-old Nellie Morris, a resident of the East London neighborhood of Bethnal Green. As the novel unfolds, readers are immersed in the harsh realities of wartime life, including the constant threat of bombings, the hardships of rationing, and the emotional turmoil of separation from loved ones.
Amidst these challenges, Nellie finds solace in a blossoming romance with an American airman named Ray. Their connection serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding us of the enduring power of love even in the darkest of times.
Creative Team
To bring this captivating tale to the big screen, Brown has assembled a formidable team of creative talents. Joining her as a producer under her PCMA banner is the esteemed Jonathan Eirich from Rideback, with Nick Reynolds serving as an executive producer for the company.
Lending his expertise to the project is the Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Anthony McCarten, renowned for his work on critically acclaimed films such as “The Theory of Everything,” “Darkest Hour,” and “The Two Popes.” McCarten’s deft hand at adapting complex narratives promises to breathe life into the characters and events depicted in “Nineteen Steps.”
History with Netflix
Brown’s decision to collaborate with Netflix on this project is a testament to her deep-rooted connections with the streaming platform. Her breakout role as the enigmatic Eleven in the Duffer Brothers’ “Stranger Things” catapulted her to global fame and earned her numerous accolades, including two Emmy nominations and two SAG Award nominations for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series.
Beyond her iconic portrayal in “Stranger Things,” Brown has solidified her partnership with Netflix through her appearances in the highly popular “Enola Holmes” films and the recently released fantasy adventure “Damsel,” which currently ranks at No. 7 on the service’s Most Popular Movies list, amassing an impressive 138 million views to date.
Upcoming Movie With Marvel Team
Fans can also look forward to Brown’s upcoming collaboration with the acclaimed Russo Brothers in the highly anticipated science-fiction adventure “The Electric State.” Slated for a March 2025 release, this Netflix original promises an ensemble cast featuring Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Stanley Tucci, and Jenny Slate, among others.
With Millie Bobby Brown’s creative vision, Anthony McCarten’s masterful storytelling prowess, and the production expertise of Rideback, “Nineteen Steps” promises to be a cinematic tour de force. As this ambitious project unfolds, audiences worldwide can look forward to an immersive and emotionally resonant exploration of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit.
Conclusion
In the capable hands of this talented ensemble, “Nineteen Steps” stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of viewers, solidifying Millie Bobby Brown’s status as a multifaceted talent with a profound respect for her family’s legacy and a dedication to preserving stories that resonate across generations. Deadline was the first to report the news.
