Netflix has announced its intentions to create a movie adaptation of the beloved book series written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight.
The live-action Eloise adaptation, set at the iconic Plaza Hotel, is being developed by Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for her work on Gilmore Girls. The lead role will be played by newcomer Mae Schenk, who will star alongside Ryan Reynolds from the Deadpool franchise.
Hannah Minghella, the Head of Feature Animation and Family Film at Netflix, expressed excitement about bringing Eloise to a new generation, emphasizing the character’s enduring popularity since the 1950s.
MRC, an independent film and television studio, obtained the rights to Eloise in 2019, signaling a lengthy process leading up to the current project. MRC Film co-presidents Jonathan Golfman and Brye Adler highlighted the collaboration with the Thompson estate and Handmade Films to bring Eloise to audiences worldwide.
Eloise chronicles the adventures of a young girl living in the top floor of The Plaza Hotel in New York with her nanny, pet pug Weenie, and turtle Skipperdee. The character was inspired by Thompson’s childhood imaginary friend and alter ego.
The illustrator, Knight, shared that the iconic image of Eloise drew inspiration from a painting by his mother in the 1930s.
This movie adaptation is not the first time Eloise has graced screens; in 2003, Disney Television produced two TV films based on the initial books, with Sofia Vassilieva playing Eloise and Julie Andrews portraying Nanny.
Moreover, an animated series aired in 2006 on Starz! Kids & Family, featuring Mary Mouser as the voice of Eloise and Lynn Redgrave as Nanny.
The upcoming Eloise film will be exclusively available on Netflix, offering viewers a fresh take on the cherished children’s property.