Earlier this year, Universal hired Chris McKay to direct Renfield, which re-tells the story of Dracula from the point of view of the vampire’s most devoted servant. Now, the studio has found the film’s star. Deadline is reporting that Nicholas Hoult has signed on to play the title character in the upcoming monster flick.
In Bram Stoker’s novel, Renfield was committed to an asylum due to the belief that he suffered from delusions. However, it was quickly revealed that he was in league with Dracula. Throughout the story, Renfield did whatever the vampire told him to do in the hopes that he would be made immortal. Renfield’s desire for eternal life was so strong that he began eating insects and other small animals, believing he could consume their life force.
Hoult is best known for playing Hank McCoy/Beast in 20th Century Fox’s X-Men prequel movies. Last year, he appeared in Hulu’s The Great, and he also lent his voice to the streamer’s animated series Crossing Swords. Hoult recently signed on to star opposite Anya-Taylor Joy in The Menu.
RELATED: Chris McKay To Direct Renfield Movie For Universal
McKay is directing Renfield from a screenplay by Ryan Ridley. Plot details are scarce, but the movie will apparently take place in the present rather than the Victorian age. The original story came from The Walking Dead and Invincible co-creator Robert Kirkman.
Additionally, Kirkman is producing the film through Skybound Entertainment alongside David Alpert, Bryan Furst, and Sean Furst. McKay’s frequent collaborator Samantha Nisenboim is also onboard as a producer.
Do you think Hoult is a good choice to headline Renfield? Give us your impressions in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Dracula
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate advertising program also provides a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
