Gemma Arterton (Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters), Sam Claflin (The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1), and Bill Nighy (Love Actually) have officially joined the adaptation of the comedy Their Finest Hour and a Half. The story, which will be told in the tone of an old-fashioned romantic comedy from the classic Hollywood era, follows a British film crew that attempts to boost soldier morale during WWII by making a patriotic film.
The actors’ specific roles haven’t been announced yet. Arteton has had a variety of projects since her role in Hansel & Gretel, including the poker thriller Runner Runner and the recent dark comedy The Voices. Claflin is best known stateside for playing Finnick Odair in The Hunger Games films. He’s also set to star in the drama Me Before You. Nighy is one of the most recognized British character actors working today and was recently seen in the sequel The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
The novel by Lissa Evans was adapted for the screen by Gaby Chiappe, (BBC’s EastEnders) and will be directed by Lone Scherfig (An Education). It’s the first film script for Chiappe. Scherfig on the other hand, drew critical acclaim for her work on An Education and recently directed the drama Riot Club, about a secret society of students at Oxford University. Scherfig and Claflin worked together on Riot Club.
Their Finest Hour and a Half is set to start filming this summer. No release date has been announced at this time.