Isla Johnston, known for her breakout role in The Queen’s Gambit, is reportedly in early talks to play the lead in Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming epic, Jehanne d’Arc, per deadline.com. The film, backed by Warner Bros., is based on the life of the French heroine and patron saint, Joan of Arc.
This highly sought-after role has been at the center of a wide-ranging search for a young actress to embody the legendary figure. Joan of Arc was a 15th-century peasant girl who led the French army in the Siege of Orléans during the Hundred Years’ War and played a crucial role in the coronation of King Charles VII before being tragically burned at the stake.
Luhrmann, who wrote the script with playwright Ava Pickett, has been preparing for the film and recently narrowed his search to a small group of promising young actresses before selecting Johnston. A recent script reading was held for Warner Bros. executives at the historic Chateau Marmont, where the first draft of Rebel Without a Cause was also read. The event included a visual presentation by Catherine Martin, Luhrmann’s design partner.
For Johnston, a British actress represented by The Artists Partnership and UTA, this is a potential career-making opportunity.
Warner Bros. has however not yet released an official statement.
•Featured image: Isla Johnston/Owen Brown
