Jennifer Kent's The Babadook was not only the best horror film of 2014 but one of the most accomplished feature directorial debuts to come in a long while. So all eyes are on her to see where she goes next, and now the up-and-coming filmmaker revealed her sophomore effort: an adaptation of Alexis Coe's non-fiction novel Alice + Freda Forever.
The directorial news comes from a press release. Kent, in addition to directing, wrote the screenplay, while Greg Berlanti (creator of Arrow and The Flash) and Sarah Schecter (Pan) produce alongside Sidney Kimmel (Moneyball). The debut novel and eventual film takes place in late 19th century Memphis, TN, and centers on Alice Mitchell and Freda Ward, two high school-aged girls that form a budding romance which soon incites a sensational murder.
Development is still early, and there's no word yet on when production hopes to start, or any release date for that matter. Casting likely commences soon, however.
“Jennifer Kent was my first choice from the moment I read Coe’s exceptional book," Schecter said. "Jennifer’s debut film was one of the most accomplished I have ever seen and I’m thrilled she shares the same passion for telling this powerful, intense and unfortunately still timely story. We are thrilled to have Sidney Kimmel Entertainment as our partners.”
Indeed, this seems like a very good match between filmmaker and material. The Babdook displayed Kent's talents in depicting the inner and metaphorical struggles of young women, and proved herself a visceral and confident talent with a clearheaded vision and a distinct voice. The combination between surreal and reality should make this real-life tale all the more chilling when it comes onto the screen, and it'll be interesting to see how Kent uses the older backdrops to her disposable.
Alice + Freda Forever was released last October. More details on the book are here.