Production has officially commenced on Elsinore, a poignant new biographical drama backed by a powerhouse collaboration between STUDIOCANAL, LD Entertainment, Lucky Red, and Magnolia Mae Films. Directed by BAFTA nominee Simon Stone (The Dig), the film explores the inspiring and deeply moving true story of the late actor Ian Charleson.
The production has assembled a formidable ensemble cast led by BAFTA winner and Golden Globe nominee Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers, Ripley), who also serves as a producer, and Academy Award winner Olivia Colman (The Favourite). Joining them is Billie Piper, reuniting with Stone following their acclaimed collaboration on the stage sensation Yerma.
A Tale of Courage and Artistry
Written by BAFTA winner Stephen Beresford (Pride), Elsinore chronicles the final chapters of Ian Charleson’s life. The narrative focuses on the incredible odds Charleson faced while preparing for his legendary performance in Hamlet at London’s National Theatre—a role he took on while battling the late stages of AIDS, delivering what many consider one of the greatest Shakespearean performances of the modern era.
An Unrivaled Supporting Cast
The film’s supporting roster reads like a "who’s who" of contemporary stage and screen talent, including:
Johnny Flynn (Ripley) and Luke Thompson (Bridgerton)
BAFTA and Olivier winners Monica Dolan, Juliet Stevenson, and Adeel Akhtar
Rising stars Joe Locke (Heartstopper) and Matthew Beard (Vienna Blood)
Veteran character actor Peter Mullan (Ozark)
Behind the Lens
The production features a world-class creative team, including Director of Photography Mike Eley, Production Designer Helen Scott, and Academy Award-winning Hair and Make-Up Designer Nadia Stacey (Poor Things).
STUDIOCANAL is financing the project and will handle theatrical releases across Europe and Oceania, while LD Entertainment has secured North American rights. Filming is currently underway on location across the UK, promising a cinematic tribute to a man whose dedication to his craft remains a beacon of artistic perseverance.
