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Fans of Paulo Coelho’s critically acclaimed novel The Alchemist may be thrilled to learn that production for a movie based on the 1988 book could begin as early as 2016.
According to Deadline, The Weinstein Company is in talks with Oscar-nominated actor Laurence Fishburne, who may direct the film based on the bestselling novel. As it turns out, a movie adaptation of Coelho’s most sought-after work is a passion project for Harvey Weinstein and Fishburne. As far as casting goes, it’s reported that Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom actor Idris Elba is in talks to star in the movie.
According to Variety, Weinstein first announced that he would be joining forces with Fishburne for the film back in 2008. Production was reportedly placed on hold after the company encountered financial issues, and Fishburne supposedly detached himself from the project. Whatever the issue was, it appears that the film studio is finally ready to move forward with the movie, and it seems that they’re on the cusp of a reunion with Fishburne.
“If there is one person in the world who can make a movie out of the ‘Alchemist’ it’s Harvey Weinstein,” Coelho said back in 2009. “We had a very long conversation about how it should be, how it should not be. At the end of the day, it’s his movie. It’s my book, but it’s his movie.”
For those who are unfamiliar, The Alchemist follows the journey of a Spanish shepherd named Santiago on a quest to uncover his personal destiny.
No deals have been closed as of yet, but we will be sure to keep you posted as new details emerge.
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