James and the Giant Peach Live-Action Film Reportedly In Works At Disney

It seems like another one of Roald Dahl’s classic stories is being developed into a feature-length film. Deadline is exclusively reporting that Sam Mendes is in very early talks to adapt James and the Giant Peach into a live-action movie at Disney.

Known for directing James Bond projects like Skyfall and Spectre, Mendes is said to be working alongside Nick Hornby who’s drafting the film’s screenplay. However, there’s little information available outside of those two’s involvement. The site is stressing the film’s development is in early stages, so there’s a chance the project may still fall through. But, judging by the fans’ responses, it seems like Disney would do well to steamroll the film.

Of course, the news comes as a bit of shock considering one of Hollywood’s most recent releases. Steven Spielberg’s The BFG premiered earlier this summer to critical acclaim but lousy box office numbers, raking in only $153 million globally. The film, which is based on an eponymous story by Roald Dahl, left many certain that Disney would pull back on resurrecting the author’s children stories. That, however, doesn’t seem to be the case now.

However, it’s no surprise that fans are agreeing a James and the Giant Peach remake would fare much better than its recent counterpart. The BFG was far less known than James’ story considering Walt Disney Animation released an animated James and the Giant Peach film in 1996. The animated feature stands as one of Disney’s most beloved projects as Tim Burton produced the film with director Henry Selick. Shot in both stop-motion and live-action, James and the Giant Peach was nominated for all sorts of awards, solidifying its deserved place as a pop culture pillar.

If things all go well, then James and the Giant Peach might soon be receiving treatment that several other Disney properties have undergone. The company has been digging through its IP catalog and made live-action adaptations like Maleficent, Cinderella, and The Jungle Book over the past few years. And, in the future, fans can look forward to seeing a remake of The Little Mermaid with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Beauty and the Best. Live-action adaptations for Cruella and Dumbo are also in development over a Disney, making it all the more likely that James and the Giant Peach will join the studio’s list for good.