The Hollywood Reporter has brought word that the upcoming adaptation of the best-selling family drama novel Penguin Bloom has landed The Walking Dead alum Andrew Lincoln to star in the film alongside Naomi Watts (Luce).
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The book, which was published in the United States in April as Penguin the Magpie, is the story of a little magpie chick named Penguin who changes the life of a family. Penguin Bloom will star Watts, who optioned the book alongside Reese Witherspoon and Bruna Papandrea and began development on the project two years ago. The three will serve as producers for the film along with Emma Cooper.
Penguin Bloom all begins when Sam (Watts), Cameron Bloom’s wife, suffers a near fatal fall that leaves her paralyzed and deeply depressed. One of their three sons, reeling from the tragic accident, discovers an injured magpie chick abandoned after she had fallen from her nest. The boys name the bird Penguin, for her black-and-white plumage. As they nurse Penguin back to health, the incredible joy, playfulness, and strength she exudes fortify the family and especially lift Sam’s spirits. Penguin’s resilience demonstrates that, however bleak things may seem, compassion, friendship, and support can come from unexpected places ensuring there will always be better days ahead.
Lincoln, who has only been seen on the small screen for the past decade with the lead role on the AMC post-apocalyptic hit The Walking Dead until his departure last year, will portray Cameron Bloom.
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The Penguin Bloom book features the photography of Sam’s husband Cameron and was written by New York Times best-selling author of The Blue Day Book, Bradley Trevor Greive.
“We were all captivated by this heartwarming story of resilience, the power of family and hope,” producers said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to have the supremely talented Andrew Lincoln on board to bring the Bloom’s story to audiences around the world.”
(Photo Credit: Backgrid Images)
