3 famous actors star in new audio adaptation of ‘1984’

Tom Hardy, Andrew Garfield and Andrew Scott are to star in the audio adaptation of George Orwell’s dystopian novel ‘1984.’ (AFP pic)

PARIS:

Audio fiction is becoming increasingly popular among stars of both the small and big screen. In fact, Andrew Garfield, Tom Hardy, Andrew Scott and Cynthia Erivo, are all signed up to star in Audible’s new adaptation of George Orwell’s dystopian novel “1984.”

Amazon’s Audible continues to sign up major names from the movie and TV world to star in its productions.

The cast of this new audio drama based on the dystopian novel “1984” includes Andrew Garfield, of “The Amazing Spider-Man” fame, in the male lead role of Winston Smith. He will be joined by Cynthia Erivo. The “Wicked” and “Harriet” star will take on the role of the female lead, Julia.

The pair will be joined by Andrew Scott, the iconic “hot priest” from “Fleabag,” who will lend his voice to the enigmatic O’Brien. As for Tom Hardy, the British actor will play the voice of “Big Brother.”

George Orwell’s novel “1984” transports readers into an unrecognisable version of Britain in the aftermath of a nuclear war, where a totalitarian regime has been established. People are under constant surveillance in a world where love and sex are forbidden, and where the truth is constantly shifting.

Approved by George Orwell’s estate, the audio fiction will be available on Audible from April 4, 2024. “This adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984 is an immersive listening experience, containing scenes that some may find uncomfortable.

Listener discretion is advised,” reads the adaptation’s page on the Audible platform. Richard Blair, George Orwell’s son, called it “sensational” with a “brilliant cast,” Variety reports.

The original score is by Matthew Bellamy, Muse’s lead singer and songwriter, accompanied by the British composer Ilan Eshkeri. “Recorded by the London Metropolitan Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios, the production is directed by Bafta Award winner Destiny Ekaragha, produced in Dolby Atmos by Granny Eats Wolf, and dramatised by Olivier Award nominated playwright Joe White,” says Audible.

Destiny Ekaragha, who directed certain episodes of “The End of the F***ing World,” said in a statement: “This is my first experience directing an audio drama, and what an honour it was to work so closely with a cast of this calibre. I can’t wait for everyone to hear what Andrew, Cynthia and Tom have done with these iconic characters.”

Audible previously called on Kerry Washington to develop several audio series in 2022.

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3 famous actors star in new audio adaptation of ‘1984’

Tom Hardy, Andrew Garfield and Andrew Scott will lend their voices to Amazon Audible's adaptation of George Orwell’s ‘1984.’