(Photo: Pathé)
Of course, you know Jennifer Saunders from Absolutely Fabulous and French and Saunders. The comedy legend has a new project lined up, starring in the hospital comedy Allelujah, reports Empire online.
But it’s not just Saunders; you can look for some other heavy hitters, like Dame Judi Dench, Sir Derek Jacobi, Russell Tovey and Doctor Who’s David Bradley.
That is quite the cast. And what’s it all about? Based on Alan Bennett’s play, the movie revolves around a geriatric ward that is on the verge of being shut down. The hospital calls on the local community to help avoid the closure. In an attempt to create awareness, the staff and townspeople produce a concert, even going so far to invite a news crew to cover the preparations.
Director Richard Eyre talks about bringing the play to screen, saying in a statement, “Heidi (Thomas) adapted Alan's play very cleverly, and the two of them produced a wonderful, thought-provoking script - very funny but also deeply moving.”
In addition to the writing, he talks about the topic at hand: "They challenge us to think hard about how, as a society, we should care for the old. The film is an urgent call to arms to support our public health services. Thankfully, the combination of good jokes and an important subject made it irresistible to some of our best — and best-known — actors."
There’s no word on who’s playing who, but we’ll keep an eye out for the first look trailer and share when available.
In the meantime, here’s a peek at the trailer for the film adaptation of Bennett’s The Lady in the Van starring another great, Dame Maggie Smith: 

 

Do you like a movie with a mission?