British actor Daniel Radcliffe can turn the page on his Harry Potter character now that the eighth and final film is in the can. The 20-year old has been acting in this popular franchise for half his life.
10 years is a long time to focus mainly on one character. Radcliffe is ready to move on and explore different, more mature roles.
Variety reports the actor will star in a remake of the 1930 anti-war classic All Quiet on the Western Front. It is based on the novel by German veteran Erich Maria Remarque. The original film was directed by Lewis Mileston and won the Oscar for Best Film.
Daniel Radcliffe will play Paul Baumer, a young German soldier in the trenches in France during World War I.
Screenwriter and producer Lesley Paterson explains the casting choice: "Daniel brings a vulnerability and innocence to Paul. When we realized how much he loved the script we were really excited because we know he can tap into the delicate balance between intensity and believability that is critical for this demanding role."
The remake was written by Paterson and Ian Stokell. The two are also producing the film together through their company Sliding Down Rainbows Entertainment.
Shooting won’t begin until 2012. Radcliffe has to wrap up a few prior commitments. He needs to complete his obligation to the Harry Potter franchise which means heading out on tour to promote the final film. He will also cross the pond in 2011 to take on a lead role in the Broadway play How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.
Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part I opens in theatres on November 19.